Base‐Catalyzed Depolymerization of Lignin: Separation of Monomers

Abstract

Abstract In our quest for fractionating lignocellulosic biomass and valorizing specific constitutive fractions, we have developed a strategy for the separation of 12 added value monomers generated during the hydrolytic based‐catalyzed depolymerization of a Steam Exploded Aspen Lignin. The separation strategy combines liquid‐liquid‐extraction (LLE), followed by vacuum distillation, liquid chromatography (LC) and crystallization. LLE, vacuum distillation and flash LC were tested experimentally. Batch vacuum distillation produced up to 4 fractions. Process simulation confirmed that a series of 4 vacuum distillation columns could produce 5 distinct monomer streams, 3 of which require further chromatography and crystallization for purification.