Abstract
Lignin micro- and nanoparticles (LMNPs) synthesized from side-streams of pulp and paper and biorefinery operations have been proposed for the generation of new, high-value materials. As sustainable alternatives to particles of synthetic or mineral origins, LMNPs viability depends on scale-up, manufacturing cost, and applications. By using experimental data as primary source of information, along with industrial know-how, we analyze dry and spherical LMNPs obtained by our recently reported aerosol/atomization method. First, a preliminary evaluation toward the commercial production of LMNPs from industrial lignin precursors is presented. Following, we introduce potential LMNPs applications from a financial perspective. Mass and energy balances, operating costs, and capital investment are estimated and discussed in view of LMNPs scalability prospects. The main potential market segments identified (from a financial perspective) include composite nanofillers, solid foams, emulsion stabilizers, chelating agents, and UV protection. Our technical, financial, and market assessment represent the basis for R&D planning and efforts to lower the risk related to expected industrialization efforts. Manufacturing costs were estimated between 870 and 1170 USD/t; also, minimum selling prices varied from 1240 and 1560 USD/t, depending on raw materials used. Sensitivity analysis indicated that manufacturing cost can be as low as 600 USD/t, depending on the process conditions considered. Finally, based on the financial assessment, potential applications were identified.
Highlights
Lignin naturally occurs in woody and nonwoody plants, representing from 15% to 30% by weight of the total dry mass, depending on the source.[1]
The primary production sources of industrial lignin are the organic-rich streams generated during biomass digestion, which contains mainly dissolved lignin, carbohydrates and their degradation products and extractives, as well as cooking inorganics
The production capacity selected for the current study considered a feasible scenario of a kraft lignin manufacturing facility colocated with a pulp mill, where the lignin is extracted from the black liquor.[53]
Summary
Lignin naturally occurs in woody and nonwoody plants, representing from 15% to 30% by weight of the total dry mass, depending on the source.[1]. The primary production sources of industrial lignin are the organic-rich streams generated during biomass digestion (wood pulping), which contains mainly dissolved lignin, carbohydrates and their degradation products and extractives, as well as cooking inorganics. The latter components are usually recovered from solution while the remaining material, the ligninic fraction, is normally used for energy generation.[6] This current low-end use of lignin can be seen as a starting point for the future bioeconomy, as an alternative to fossil resources that do not compete with food supply
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