Extraction, Characterization and Utilization of Organosolv Miscanthus Lignin for the Conception of Environmentally Friendly Mixed Tannin/Lignin Wood Resins

Lignin was extracted from Miscanthus x giganteus using two procedures: an aqueous-ethanol organosolv treatment and a two-step process involving a dilute acid pre-soaking step followed by an aqueous-ethanol organosolv treatment. The organosolv lignin was subjected to a comprehensive structural characterization by C-13 and MALDI-TOF MS and used for the formulation of a green wood adhesive prepared with 100% natural resins. The best formulation was composed of 60% of mimosa tannin and 40% of glyoxalated lignin extracted using a 1-step organosolv treatment. This formulation, when applied to wooden test panels yielded good internal bond strength results, which was good enough to pass relevant international standard specifications for interior-grade panels. (C) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2011