Functional Lignin Fractions

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North Carolina State University is seeking an industry partner to further develop and commercialize a biodegradable and renewable plasticizer that is based on fractionated lignin. Abstract The bioplastics industry market is increasing at annual rate of 3.6% to $179.2 million in 2019. 20% of this industry is synthetic-based, and uses renewable sources like lignin as their plasticizer. Lignin is a by-product of the paper making process, and has the potential to add great value (~ $570 million) to the bioplastics industry. However, utilization of technical lignins in value-added applications is limited due to their non-uniform heterogeneous structure and their unique chemical reactivity. Technical lignins cross-link during thermal treatments, and lead to intractable brittle non-thermoplastic products. In addition, blending technical lignin with polyolefins leads to unstable melt viscosities, which hinders their application as a renewable plasticizer. This is due to the nonproductive cooperative action of individual fractions in softwood Kraft lignin. Researchers in the College of Natural Resources at NC State University, have developed a novel technology to fractionate softwood Kraft lignin into high and low molecular weight regions. This technology can selectively mask the chemical reactive groups that cause unstable melt properties, while the cooperative chemical groups remain free. The process yields uniform results regardless of the lignin source, and the fractionated lignin offers a great plasticizing action for polyethylene. Melt extrusion of such bioplastics can be done at lower temperatures (less cost and less energy consumption), and the final product is composed of up to 25% (w/w) lignin (environmentally friendly). Not only the mechanical properties of this bioplastic is comparable to the pure plastic, but also the lignin-based bioplastic offers enhanced oxidative, thermal, and UV stability. For the plastics and bioplastics industries who are dissatisfied with the environmental impact of their products and are looking to incorporate (more) renewable raw materials, this solution allows for a reliable processing and application of lignin along with comparable mechanical properties to pure plastics. Unlike the current softwood Kraft lignin, this fractionated lignin offers a selective chemical reactivity in blends with polyolefins, yields a stable melt extrusion process, and enhances the oxidative, thermal, and light stability of the final product. Advantages Readily available and renewable source Uniform reliable process regardless of the lignin source Stable melt extrusion process, and great plasticizing effects Inexpensive process (low temperature) and less environmental impacts Comparable mechanical properties while better oxidative, thermal, and UV resistance Patent Information This work is related to NCSU Ref. 11102, which was recently awarded U.S. Patent No. 9,340,426 “High value lignin derivatives, polymers, and copolymers and use thereof in thermoplastic, thermoset, composite, and carbon fiber applications”. Technology #16214 Categories Chemical Plastics Natural Product Polymers Materials Bio-Materials External Links U.S. Patent No. 9,340,426