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Supramolecular assemblies of lignin into nano- and microparticles

  • System Integration of Functionalized Natural Materials
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Abstract

Among the most abundant biopolymers in the biosphere, lignin represents an untapped opportunity to create novel bioproducts. In this article, we discuss possibilities to synthesize nano- and microparticles by harnessing lignin’s inherent tendency to associate and to develop new material compositions and functions by controlling its capacity to assemble into supramolecular structures. Because lignin is biodegradable, antimicrobial, antioxidative, and carbon neutral, inexpensive industrial lignin streams could generate value-added particulate materials that preserve the structure, composition, and colloidal features inherent to this macromolecule. We present available routes for synthesis or isolation of lignin particles, including antisolvent and aerosol processing. Metallic and polymeric lignin particle hybrids for magnetic, antibacterial, catalytic, photonic, and other applications are also discussed. Overall, the facile formation of nano- and microparticles from lignins is expected to open new pathways toward future material development.

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Acknowledgements

We are grateful for the support of the Academy of Finland through funding of the SIRAF Project, and funding support from NordForsk under the Project “High-Value Products from Lignin.”

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  1. Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, School of Chemical Engineering, Aalto University, Finland

    Mariko Ago, Blaise L. Tardy, Ling Wang, Jiaqi Guo, Alexey Khakalo & Orlando J. Rojas

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  1. Mariko Ago
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  2. Blaise L. Tardy
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Correspondence to Mariko Ago.

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Ago, M., Tardy, B.L., Wang, L. et al. Supramolecular assemblies of lignin into nano- and microparticles. MRS Bulletin 42, 371–378 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1557/mrs.2017.88

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