Year: 2015
Type: article
Abstract: Lignin is an aromatic biopolymer involved in providing structural support to plant cell walls. Compared to the other cell wall polymers, i.e., cellulose and hemicelluloses, lignin has been considered a hindrance in cellulosic bioethanol production due to the complexity involved in its separation from other polymers of various biomass feedstocks. Nevertheless, lignin is a potential source of valuable aromatic chemical compounds and upgradable building blocks. Though the biosynthetic pathway of lignin has been elucidated in great detail, the random nature of the polymerization (free radical coupling) process poses challenges for its depolymerization into valuable bioproducts. The absence of specific methodologies for lignin degradation represents an important opportunity for research and development. This review highlights research development in lignin biosynthesis, lignin genetic engineering and different biological and chemical means of depolymerization used to convert lignin into biofuels and bioproducts.
Source: Energies
DOI: 10.3390/en8087654
Authors: Cassie Welker, Vimal Balasubramanian, Carloalberto Petti, Krishan Rai, Seth DeBolt, Venugopal Mendu
Language: English
Topic: Lignin and Wood Chemistry
Subfield: Process Chemistry and Technology
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Funder: Texas Tech University
OpenAlex ID: W1548748819