New technology for extracting lignin from plants

For the purpose of improving the sustainability of biological materials, researchers have found many ways to make food from sources such as cenlulose. The first WIST patent was for the processing of biological materials and plant products such as corn stover, hardwood and softwood.

This method involves the use of solvent to separate the fuel into cellulose and ligand, biomass. Then, the solvent and lignin mixture is drained and turned into a high-energy fuel mixture that can be used alone or in combination with biodiesel.

In addition, pure cellulose extracted from this process will be used to make paper or be converted to fermentation sugar. This sugar can be used to make renewable chemicals used in the industry to make synthetic rubber, plastics, pharmaceuticals.

Based on this initial process, WIST researchers have developed and improved the lignin extraction process from cellulose. The lignin produced is not easy to separate, which can easily be used to make other chemicals.

This method saves the amount of lignin burned - in a way that paper mills often use to restore inorganic chemicals - thereby saving a lot of money.

Currently, WIST is working with technology funds to obtain intellectual property licenses for the industry and the development of monks. The researchers also envisage several practical applications for lignin including carbon fiber fabrication.

References: Gizmag