Efficient mapping of lignin depolymerization product pools and quantification of specific monomers through rapid GPC-HPLC-UV/VIS analysis.

Background: Growing research on lignin depolymerization to functionalized bio-aromatics has necessitated dedicated analysis techniques. However, immense variability in molecular weight and functional groups of the depolymerization products impedes fast analysis of a large number of samples while remaining in-depth enough for catalyst screening or reaction condition optimization. While GPC-HPLC-UV/VIS has been a promising technique, up until now, the information it provides is largely qualitative.

Comprehensive Model for the Synthesis of γ-AlO Microsphere-Supported Bimetallic Iron- and Copper Oxide Materials.

The effects of incipient wetness impregnation synthesis conditions on the macro- and microscopic properties of bimetallic iron oxide/copper oxide@γ-AlO microspheres were elucidated. The key steering factors for the macroscopic distribution of the metals throughout the support, and for the metal nanoparticle sizes, were the pH of the impregnation solution, the counterions present in the metal precursor, the amount of negatively charged groups on the alumina, the complexation of iron, the impregnation strategy (simultaneous or sequential) and, in the latter case, the order of impregnation. The interactions taking place during impregnation are identified as competitive adsorption of charged dissolved species (Fe/Cu cations, protons, and additional anions) in the impregnation solution.

Fast screening of Depolymerized Lignin Samples Through 2D-Liquid Chromatography Mapping.

Lignin valorization and particularly its depolymerization into bio-aromatics, has emerged as an important research topic within green chemistry. However, screening of catalysts and reaction conditions within this field is strongly constrained by the lack of analytical techniques that allow for fast and detailed mapping of the product pools. This analytical gap results from the inherent product pool complexity and the focus of the state-of-the-art on monomers and dimers, overlooking the larger oligomers.

Development of Lignin-Based Mesoporous Carbons for the Adsorption of Humic Acid.

There is an increasing urge to make the transition toward biobased materials. Lignin, originating from lignocellulosic biomass, can be potentially valorized as humic acid (HA) adsorbents lignin-based mesoporous carbon (MC). In this work, these materials were synthesized for the first time starting from modified lignin as the carbon precursor, using the soft-template methodology.