Unraveling lignin's structural features for catalytic oxidative depolymerization and enhanced renewable resource utilization

Abstract

The effective utilization of lignin, a complex and abundant biopolymer in biomass, holds great potential for sustainable biomass conversion and the development of renewable resources. This study focuses on the catalytic oxidative transformation of lignin, aiming to unravel its structural features and their impact on product diversity. The significance of the content of β-O-4 linkages in lignin becomes evident as a crucial factor influencing the yield of phenolic monomer products, emphasizing its utmost importance. Additionally, the presence of S-type structural units in lignin positively influences its catalytic conversion efficiency, as evidenced by higher S/G ratios and increased degradation yields. However, the complex nature of lignin, influenced by growth environment and pretreatment methods, presents challenges for its efficient depolymerization and utilization. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of lignin's structure is crucial for advancing its effective utilization and the development of renewable resources. This research elucidates the catalytic conversion mechanisms of lignin, providing practical implications for promoting the utilization of renewable resources in relevant fields.