Synthesis of Lignin-based Polyurethanes

Introduction: After cellulose, lignin represents the most abundant biopolymer on earth that accounts for up to 18-35 % by weight of lignocellulose biomass. Today, it is a by-product of the paper and pulping industry. Although lignin is available in huge amounts, mainly in form of so called black liquor produced via Kraft-pulping, processes for the valorization of lignin are still limited [1]. Due to its hyperbranched polyphenol-like structure, lignin gained increasing interest as biobased building block for polymer synthesis [2]. The present work is focused on extraction and purification of lignin from industrial black liquor and synthesis of lignin-based polyurethanes.