Microwave-assisted fast conversion of lignin model compounds and organosolv lignin over methyltrioxorhenium in ionic liquids

Conversion of a series of lignin beta-O-4 model compounds 2-aryloxy-1-arylethanols and organosolv lignin to aromatic chemicals over methyltrioxorhenium (MTO) in ionic liquids without any oxidant and reducing agent under mild conditions was developed. Microwave irradiation accelerates the cleavage of aryl ether bonds and shortens the reaction time to 2 min.