Recent Advances in Renewable Polymer Production from Lignin-Derived Aldehydes

Lignin directly derived from lignocellulosic biomass has been named a promising source of platform chemicals for the production of bio-based polymers. This review discusses potentially relevant routes to produce renewable aromatic aldehydes (e.g., syringaldehyde and vanillin) from lignin feedstocks (pre-isolated lignin or lignocellulose) that are used to synthesize a range of bio-based polymers. To do this, the processes to make aromatic aldehydes from lignin with their highest available yields are first presented. After that, the routes from such aldehydes to different polymers are explored. Challenges and perspectives of the production the lignin-derived renewable chemicals and polymers are also highlighted.

Automated summary

This review explores the potential of using lignin derived from lignocellulosic biomass as a source of platform chemicals for bio-based polymers. It discusses routes to produce renewable aromatic aldehydes from lignin feedstocks and their conversion to various bio-based polymers. Challenges and prospects of producing lignin-derived renewable chemicals and polymers are also highlighted.