The Modification of Lignin at Positions 2 and 6 of the Phenylpropanoid Nucleii - Part II¹ : Hydroxymethylation of Lignin Model Compounds

Abstract

Phenolic hardwood and softwood lignin model compounds were hydroxyl-methylated with formaldehyde at positions meta to the aromatic hydroxy group. O-alkylated phenolic model compounds were hydroxymethylated at the same relative positions. The introduction of the reactive hydroxymethyl groups in high yield has tremendous potential for the utilization of lignin in polymeric products.