From Homogeneous Lignins to Degradable Thermosets: Gaining Fundamental Insights on Structure Property Relationships

Lignin is the most abundant bio-based source of aromatic compounds and attractive as a substitute for fossil-based aromatics used in material applications.

One problem however is that large scale available lignins, also termed technical lignins, are heterogeneous in nature and their full molecular structures are still poorly understood. This presents challenges for their applications in materials where precise control of the properties is a prerequisite.

Hence lignin biorefining efforts targeting high quality lignins for applications are under investigations.

In this project, a library of high quality lignins from our laboratory will be valorized to bio-based materials with focus put on developing fundamental understanding of how the chemical and physical properties of molecular lignin and other molecular components affect the material properties. We will specifically study thermoset systems.

The valorization strategies of lignin adopted here are chosen with foresight for degradability of the lignin-based materials at the end of use.

Epoxidation and oxidative valorization strategies will be adopted, while maintaining the aromaticity for rigidity in synthesized materials. Subsequently, various crosslinking formulations to obtain thermosets will be studied. Finally, thermoset degradability will be investigated.

The project is intended as a phd project with a duration of four 4-years and goals will be achievable through supervision by a wood chemist and a polymer chemist.