Active microlignins derived from formic acid fractionation for adsorption of Pb(II)

This study reports the preparation of a lignin with abundant phenolic hydroxyls through formic acid fraction-ation and applied it to adsorb the Pb(II). It was found that the resultant LMP (lignin micro particle) had a mean size of 723.6 nm (polydispersity index = 0.956). The adsorption capacity of LMP to Pb(II) at equilibrium reached 96.18 mg/g, which was much higher than other origin lignin and even the modified lignin-based adsorbents. Besides, the LMP could be easily prepared from the black liquor of formic acid fractionation. These findings indicate that the formic acid LMP has a great potential to be used as adsorbents for toxic metal ions.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the preparation of lignin with abundant phenolic hydroxyls through formic acid fractionation and its application as an adsorbent for Pb(II). The resulting LMP had a mean size of 723.6 nm and exhibited a high adsorption capacity of 96.18 mg/g, surpassing other lignin-based adsorbents. It can be easily obtained from the black liquor of formic acid fractionation, indicating its potential for toxic metal ions adsorption.