Lignin deconstruction for the production of liquid fuels

While much attention has focused on the use of biomass to produce ethanol, high capacity processes are required for the production of hydrocarbon fuels and chemicals from lignocellulosic biomass. This follows from the fact that relative to crude petroleum, ethanol is of limited use in chemical manufacturing, while its production from lignocellulosic biomass will result in huge quantities of lignin residues. Hence, if efficient methods can be found for lignin deconstruction, a new paradigm would be created. However, the utilization of lignin is presently hampered by its resistance to chemical and biological manipulation, and consequently a lack of cost-efficient processes for its conversion to fuels and chemicals. The overarching goal of this work is the development of new processes for the direct conversion of lignin to liquid fuels, based on a sound understanding of the chemistry of lignin deconstruction. In this presentation new developments and remaining challenges will be discussed.