Lignin Valorisation for Chemicals and (Transportation) Fuels via (Catalytic) Pyrolysis and Hydrodeoxygenation

New technology is needed to exploit the potential of lignin as a renewable feedstock for fuels, chemicals and performance products. Fast fluidized bed pyrolysis of different lignins at 400 degrees C yields up to 2.1 wt% (d.b.) of a phenolic fraction containing 10 wt%, (d.b.) of several phenols. Subsequent catalytic hydrotreating of this phenolic fraction with 100 bar of hydrogen in dodecane at 350 degrees C yields mainly cycloalkanes, cyclohexanols and alkanes. For the production, of monomeric Phenols, it appears that the used ruthenium on carbon,is a too active catalyst. However, cyclohexanols may be interesting products, e.g., for use as oxygenates in engine fuel. (C) 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 28: 461-469, 2009