Poster

P2.13 – Catalytic Conversion of Solvent-Processed Lignin into Sustainable Chemicals and Materials

Hemant Choudhary

Sandia National Labs / Joint BioEnergy Institute

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Lignin, an abundant aromatic biopolymer accounting for nearly one-third of the organic carbon in the biosphere, remains underutilized compared to the holocellulosic fraction of lignocellulosic biomass. Its structural heterogeneity and the condensation reactions induced by conventional delignification methods (e.g., Kraft, sulfite processes) create significant barriers to efficient depolymerization and valorization. In contrast, solvent-based fractionation—including ionic liquids and organic co-solvents—has emerged as a promising alternative, offering high sugar yields, biocompatibility, and the ability to recover sulfur-free lignin with minimal structural degradation.In this presentation, we will discuss the generation and catalytic conversion of solvent-processed lignin from diverse biomass sources. We will explore how tailored solvents influence lignin structure, minimize unwanted side reactions, and improve product homogeneity. Furthermore, we will demonstrate how advanced catalytic strategies – such as hydrogenolysis and oxidative cleavage – enable the transformation of solvent-extracted lignin into sustainable chemicals and functional materials. By addressing key challenges in lignin valorization, this approach enhances process efficiency while contributing to greener and more economically viable biorefinery technologies.

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