Green Aromatics and Alkanes from Lignin-Based Bio-Oil: A Sustainable Path for Chemicals Production

Purpose and goal:

The purpose of this project is to demonstrate the potential and develop a methodology for producing hydrocarbons (aromatics and alkanes) through hydroprocessing of Lignol® derived from Organosolv and Hydrolysis lignin combined with various fatty acids. This aims to increase the understanding of how these lignins and fatty acids can be utilized effectively, advancing the readiness levels of the processes involved.

The end goal is to make these resources more accessible and attractive to potential end users and encourage the adoption of renewable feedstocks in chemical production. Expected results and effects:

The project will highlight the value of using organosolv and hydrolysis processes, via the Lignol® technology to increase availability of renewable feedstocks for chemical production. The project has the potential to induce new IP throughout the value chain including lignin production, as well as Lignol® synthesis, production, and hydroprocessing.

By widening the Lignol® portfolio using new raw material streams and with increased understanding of the processes involved turning Lignol® into hydrocarbons, the business case towards potential customers will be strengthened. Approach and implementation:

The work will be divided into work packages that will include lignin process development, Lignol® recipe optimization, hydroprocessing, fractionation and separation of hydroprocessed product, as well as market and sustainability assessments. Organosolv and Hydrolysis lignin has a relatively less complex structure compared to Kraft lignin and could therefore be more suitable in the production of low molecular weight green aromatics.

By varying the choice of fatty acid in the Lignol® synthesis the bio-oil properties can be tuned and optimized to achieve desired products.