Selecting Suitable Near-Native Lignins for Research

Lignin-Derived Flexible Polyurethane Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Smart Underwater Sensing

With the deepening of marine resource development and marine science research, developing devices capable of underwater sensing and self-powering has become a significant challenge. Moreover, there is a growing demand for the environmental sustainability of the substrate materials used in the device. Herein, we have synthesized a lignin-based polyurethane foam with a high biobased content (HBLPUF) by the reaction of pentamethylene diisocyanate (PDI) with lignin polyol. The conductive polyaniline (PANI) was grown in situ on the surface of HBLPUF, serving as the substrate, and assembled with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film to form a vertical contact-separation triboelectric nanogenerator. It was additionally encapsulated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to ensure stable performance underwater. A voltage of up to 148 V and a current output of 1.8 μA were achieved, successfully overcoming the challenge of the underwater power supply. The excellent fatigue resistance of the foam substrate allowed it to maintain stable output even after 10,000 impact tests. The sensor could detect various movements in both conventional and underwater environments, including twisting, finger bending, and wrist flexion. This study introduced a novel approach for fabricating a lignin-based underwater triboelectric nanogenerator, which holds significant implications for advancing the application of polyurethane foam and the development of underwater sensing technologies.

Glucuronoyl esterases improve cellulose hydrolysis by lignocellulose degrading enzymes and enhance lignin extraction

Glucuronoyl esterases (GEs) catalyze cleavage of ester linkages between lignin and hemicellulose. This study investigates the role of GEs in the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass in combination with a minimal set of monocomponent cellulases (endo-1,4-glucanase, cellobiohydrolases 1 and 2, and beta-glucosidase) and a GH10 endo-xylanase. We clearly demonstrate how these enzymes promote the disassembly of lignocellulose by breaking some of the covalent bonds between lignin and xylan. By cleaving the ester-linked lignin-carbohydrate complexes, we demonstrate enhanced cellulose hydrolysis of untreated lignocellulosic biomass (hardwood, softwood, and cereals). The increase in glucose production from hydrolysis of untreated lignocellulose suggests an improvement in cellulase accessibility to cellulose fibers associated with ester bond cleavage and highlights how GEs complement cellulases and xylanases in breaking down the complex lignocellulosic matrix. Furthermore, we demonstrate how GEs facilitate lignin extraction in mild aldehyde-assisted fractionation, which results in a higher yield of aldehyde-protected lignins, which is desirable for high-value applications. This is the first direct evidence of improve lignin extraction by the action of GEs. GEs are important enzymes for the efficient deconstruction of lignocellulosic biomass and that the integration of GEs with other enzymes may lead to more sustainable and economically viable biomass conversion processes alongside extraction of high-quality lignin.

Lignin: An Adaptable Biodegradable Polymer Used in Different Formulation Processes

INTRODUCTION

LIG is a biopolymer found in vascular plant cell walls that is created by networks of hydroxylated and methoxylated phenylpropane that are randomly crosslinked. Plant cell walls contain LIG, a biopolymer with significant potential for usage in modern industrial and pharmaceutical applications. It is a renewable raw resource. The plant is mechanically protected by this substance, which may increase its durability. Because it has antibacterial and antioxidant qualities, LIG also shields plants from biological and chemical challenges from the outside world. Researchers have done a great deal of work to create new materials and substances based on LIG. Numerous applications, including those involving antibacterial agents, antioxidant additives, UV protection agents, hydrogel-forming molecules, nanoparticles, and solid dosage forms, have been made with this biopolymer.

METHODS

For this review, a consistent literature screening using the Pubmed database from 2019-2024 has been performed.

RESULTS

The results showed that there is an increase in interest in lignin as an adaptable biomolecule. The most recent studies are focused on the biosynthesis and antimicrobial properties of lignin-derived molecules. Also, the use of lignin in conjunction with nanostructures is actively explored.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, lignin is a versatile molecule with multiple uses in industry and medical science.