A Perspective on Lignin Refining, Functionalization, and Utilization

摘要

Lignin is the second most abundant natural polymer in the world, yet its utilization (other than for fuel) makes up only a tiny fraction of the billions of pounds processed from harvested wood and other lignocellulosic crops. There is no doubt that our society is placing a renewed emphasis on the possibility of using lignin streams as a replacement for aromatic components of petrochemical origin. A cursory examination of the literature over the past 5 years shows tremendous activity in this area, with many reviews appearing, addressing various aspects of lignin chemistry and utilization. Despite this interest, however, obstacles remain toward making this valuable resource a feedstock and reality for many of our industry's processes. These obstacles are technical, economic, and cultural.