Electrochemical Depolymerization of Propionaldehyde-Stabilized Lignin on Nickel-based Electrodes Enhancing Monomer Yield Recovery
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: Lignin valorization remains a critical challenge due to its heterogeneous and recalcitrant nature, which complicates conversion into value-added chemicals. While conventional thermochemical methods rely on harsh conditions that compromise biorefinery economics, lignin’s solubility—dictated by its isolation method—further hinders efficient processing. Here, we report a one-pot electrooxidative depolymerization strategy for propionaldehyde-stabilized lignin (PA-lignin) using nickel electrodes in alkaline media. This approach selectively cleaves ~24 % of the lignin polymer into aromatic monomers, predominantly syringyl and guaiacyl derivatives, under mild conditions and without redox mediators. Compared to unmodified lignin, PA-lignin yields 28% ethyl acetate-extractable products, nearly fourfold higher, demonstrating that propionaldehyde capping suppresses condensation reactions and enhances monomer release. The simplicity of this single-step electrochemical process, combined with its improved monomer yield, makes it a promising and scalable upgrade for future lignocellulosic biorefineries.
Source: ChemRxiv
Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, École Polytechnique, Laboratoire de Chimie Moléculaire, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, Laboratoire de Chimie Moléculaire, ISIPCA, Université de Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Université Paris-Saclay, Institut Lavoisier de Versailles, Commissariat à l'Énergie Atomique et aux Énergies Alternatives, CEA DAM Île-de-France
Language: English
Topic: Lignin and Wood Chemistry
Subfield: Process Chemistry and Technology
Field: Chemical Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221659073