Lignin is a multifunctional biopolymer playing important roles
in the plant cell wall. Its rigidity, hydrophobic character, and chemical
structure ensure mechanical, biological, and protection functions to the
plant enabling long-term performance even under harsh environmental
conditions. Unlike traditional pulping processes which focus mainly on
cellulose as the main product, and separate it from lignin, we propose here
an alternative phosphate biorefinery for pulp, paper and nanomaterials
production associating cellulose and lignin. Our process is circular,
provides a high yield, requires low water and energy, and permits effluent
recycling. On top of the load-bearing cellulose, the presence of lignin and
phosphate affords multi-functional materials for better mechanical, thermal,
and moisture resistance, towards sustainable alternatives to plastics from
petroleum origin.