Nickel-Driven Electrochemical Upgrading of Kraft Lignin to Value-Added Aliphatic and Phenolic Products
The depolymerization of lignin represents a promising strategy for its efficient utilization as a precursor for industrial raw materials. However, achieving both high efficiency and environmental sustainability remains a significant challenge. In this study, we present an aqueous electrochemical app...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Molecules |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/30/12/2544 |
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| Summary: | The depolymerization of lignin represents a promising strategy for its efficient utilization as a precursor for industrial raw materials. However, achieving both high efficiency and environmental sustainability remains a significant challenge. In this study, we present an aqueous electrochemical approach employing nickel as an electrocatalyst, enabling both depolymerization and partial de-aromatization of Kraft lignin under mild reaction conditions. Using an aqueous sodium carbonate medium, room temperature and ambient pressure, we achieved lignin depolymerization over reaction times ranging from 5 to 20 h. Characterization by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy confirmed the formation of aliphatic products such as acetate and formate, while high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) confirmed the formation of a wide range of phenolic compounds. The conversion of lignin into valuable aromatic and aliphatic compounds offers a promising pathway for the synthesis of a wide range of organic chemicals and their subsequent industrial utilization, thereby supporting the development of a more sustainable economy. |
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| ISSN: | 1420-3049 |