Lignin

Lignin is a complex organic polymer that is abundant in the cell walls of some specific cells in plants. It is a class of hydrocarbon polymers consisting of aliphatic and aromatic structures. Lignin has many biological functions, such as water transport, mechanical support, and protection against pathogens. It is a structural biopolymer that gives stems, bark, and branches their signature woodiness. Lignin surrounds valuable plant fibres and other molecules that could be converted into biofuels and other commodity chemicals.

Lignin is a three-dimensional amorphous polymer with a phenylpropane structure, a benzene ring with a tail of three carbons. It is bonded in complex and various ways to carbohydrates (hemicelluloses) in wood. In nature, lignin is very resistant to degradation, being held together with strong chemical bonds. However, it can be broken down in an anaerobic environment.

Lignin is a natural resource with huge potential and is the raw material for basic chemicals. It produces many products, including road dust reduction, animal feed, and paperboard. Lignin has numerous applications across various industries, including automotive, construction, coatings, plastics, and pharmaceuticals[6]. Refined lignin can replace fossil-based phenols that are used in resins for plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), laminated veneer lumber (LVL), paper, and more.