Project R-14394

Valorisation of Organosolv Lignin Residues as Activated Carbonsupported Biorefinery Catalysts (Research)

In the ongoing shift towards a more sustainable circular economy, considerable research efforts are currently directed towards biorefinery-based sourcing of essential chemicals, such as phenolics derived from lignin—an abundant compound found in lignocellulosic biomass feedstocks. However, these renewable valorization strategies, including the reductive depolymerization of organosolv lignin, generate solid waste residues that adversely impact the atom economy and economic competitiveness of the platform chemicals derived from bio-oils. To address this challenge, we propose an innovative approach to convert these residues into valuable adsorbent materials or high-performance catalyst supports. This not only mitigates the waste issue but also aligns with the growing demand for advanced surface-engineered substrates. For the biorefinery schemes to truly rival their fossil-fuel-based counterparts, addressing open ends in the process is imperative. This project aims to tackle two critical challenges simultaneously. First, we will investigate the conversion of organosolv lignin residues into specialty activated carbons through slow pyrolysis. Second, we will employ various lignin phosphorylation techniques to create unique sorbents and bi-functional catalysts, introducing specific phosphate and phosphonate surface groups. Our goal is to produce highly porous activated carbons with a low ash content, targeting at least 5% phosphorus incorporation. Importantly, we will utilize non-toxic and environmentally friendly phosphorylation reagents in this process. Anticipated outcomes include substrates exhibiting superior metal sorption properties in acidic media and serving as ideal platforms for the deposition of Ni/Co active sites. This forms bifunctional metal acid balanced materials crucial for the catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis of lignin-derived guaiacyl. Through this approach, we achieve ultimate circularity and resource optimization, allowing the valorization of the liquid lignin-derived fraction using its own solid residue. This innovative workflow not only addresses the waste challenge but also contributes to the sustainable production of platform chemicals from renewable carbon sources.

01 September 2023 - 31 August 2027