Hydrothermal Liquefaction of α‐O‐4 Aryl Ether Linkages in Lignin

• DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201903263
• Publication Date: 2020-01-24T08:51:24Z
• Authors: Matthew Y. Lui; Bun Chan; Alexander K. L. Yuen; Anthony F. Masters; Thomas Maschmeyer
• Keywords: Hydrothermal liquefaction

Abstract By using lignin model compounds with relevant key characteristic structural features, the reaction pathways of α‐O‐4 aryl ether linkages under hydrothermal conditions are elucidated. Experimental results and computational modeling suggest that in undergo catalyzed hydrolysis elimination to give phenolic alkenylbenzene derivatives as major products subcritical water. The decreased relative permittivity water at these high temperatures pressures facilitates reactions. alkyl group on α‐carbon methoxy groups phenyl rings both have positive effects rate conversion native lignin.