Abstract
Lignin is an important commercially produced polymeric material. It is used extensively in both industrial and agricultural activities. Recently, it has drawn much attention from the scientific community. It is abundantly present in nature and has significant application in the production of biodegradable materials. Its wide usage includes drug delivery, polymers and several forms of emerging lignin nanoparticles. The synthesis of lignin nanoparticles is carried out in a controlled manner. The traditional manufacturing techniques are costly and often toxic and hazardous to the environment. This review article highlights simple, safe, climate-friendly and ecological approaches to the synthesis of lignin nanoparticles. The changeable, complex structure and recalcitrant nature of lignin makes it challenging to degrade. Researchers have discovered a small number of microorganisms that have developed enzymatic and non-enzymatic metabolic pathways to use lignin as a carbon source. These microbes show promising potential for the biodegradation of lignin. The degradation pathways of these microbes are also described, which makes the study of biological synthesis much easier. However, surface modification of lignin nanoparticles is something that is yet to be explored. This review elucidates the recent advances in the biodegradation of lignin in the ecological system. It includes the current approaches, methods for modification, new applications and research for the synthesis of lignin and lignin nanoparticles. Additionally, the intricacy of lignin’s structure, along with its chemical nature, is well-described. This article will help increase the understanding of the utilization of lignin as an economical and alternative-resource material. It will also aid in the minimization of solid waste arising from lignin.
Highlights
Lignin is one of the main renewable sources of aromatic molecules and is regarded as the second-largest renewable source
The detailed pathways, along with all the enzymes and molecules involved in the degradation of lignin by microorganisms can be made efficient and rapid by introducing nanotechnology and nanoparticles
Lignin nanoparticles offer an adaptable platform for significant applications
Summary
Lignin is one of the main renewable sources of aromatic molecules and is regarded as the second-largest renewable source. Many researchers are trying to combat the challenges associated with transforming lignin into different valuable products by developing diverse procedures and pathways. The current review work emphasizes the state-of-the-art, latest advancements in the synthesis of lignin micro- and nanoparticles by physical, chemical and biological routes. This review work emphasizes the various microbial approaches for the remediation of lignin in the environment and in simulated laboratory conditions Another objective of this review work is to provide the latest biodegradation pathways for mineralization by various fungi and bacteria. This review provides emerging applications for lignin and lignin nanoparticles in research, environmental cleanup and biodegradable materials. The suggested applications will help reduce pollution arising from the accumulation of non-degradable material in our environment
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