Heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of lignin into value-added chemicals

Abstract

Of late there is significant interest in establishing biorefineries for total utilization of lignocellulosic biomass components to produce energy, chemicals and value-added products. Lignin is an abundant and yet underutilized constituent of lignocellulosic biomass that accounts for up to 40% of the energy content. Among several approaches towards value addition of lignin, catalytic oxidation appears to be promising. Hence, the purpose of this report is to provide background information on catalytic oxidation and to update the reader about current research on heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of lignin into value-added products. Additionally, some thoughts are presented to stimulate discussion on lignin oxidation.

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.