Advanced Applications for Lignin Micro- and Nano-based Materials

This review paper summarizes recent research studies on the pathways to convert lignin into a micro and nanosize materials and their use in advanced applications as these materials are being utilized in greater amounts in recent years. Research, development, and applications carried out demonstrate the potential of lignin products (e.g., micro- and nanospheres, nanofibers, and nanotubes) for use in drug delivery, pesticide-controlled release, biocarbon fiber, electrochemical energy storage, purification, and nanocomposites. The key benefits being exploited are the cost reduction associated to the use of lignin instead of synthetic polymers and the utilization of renewable raw materials instead of petroleum resources which encourage further development of technical lignins with high value-added applications such as micro- and nanosize lignins.