1
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Silva JP, Frederico TD, Ticona ARP, Pinto OHB, Williams TCR, Krüger RH, Noronha EF. Insights on kraft lignin degradation in an anaerobic environment. Enzyme Microb Technol 2024; 179:110468. [PMID: 38850683 DOI: 10.1016/j.enzmictec.2024.110468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Lignin is an aromatic macromolecule and one of the main constituents of lignocellulosic materials. Kraft lignin is generated as a residual by-product of the lignocellulosic biomass industrial process, and it might be used as a feedstock to generate low molecular weight aromatic compounds. In this study, we seek to understand and explore the potential of ruminal bacteria in the degradation of kraft lignin. We established two consortia, KLY and KL, which demonstrated significant lignin-degrading capabilities. Both consortia reached maximum growth after two days, with KLY showing a higher growth and decolorization rate. Additionally, SEM analysis revealed morphological changes in the residual lignin from both consortia, indicating significant degradation. This was further supported by FTIR spectra, which showed new bands corresponding to the C-H vibrations of guaiacyl and syringyl units, suggesting structural transformations of the lignin. Taxonomic analysis showed enrichment of the microbial community with members of the Dickeya genus. Seven metabolic pathways related to lignin metabolism were predicted for the established consortia. Both consortia were capable of consuming aromatic compounds such as 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, syringaldehyde, acetovanillone, and syringic acid, highlighting their capacity to convert aromatic compounds into commercially valuable molecules presenting antifungal activity and used as food preservatives as 4-hydroxyphenylacetic, 3-phenylacetic, and phenylacetic acids. Therefore, the microbial consortia shown in the present work are models for understanding the process of lignin degradation and consumption in bacterial anaerobic communities and developing biological processes to add value to industrial processes based on lignocellulosic biomass as feedstock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica P Silva
- Enzymology Laboratory, Cell Biology Department, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Tayná D Frederico
- Enzymology Laboratory, Cell Biology Department, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Alonso R P Ticona
- Enzyme Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Science Faculty, Universidad Nacional Jorge Basadre Grohmann, Tacna 23003, Peru
| | - Otávio H B Pinto
- Genomic for Climate Change Research Center (GCCRC), Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP 13083-875, Brazil
| | - Thomas C R Williams
- Plant Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Brasilia, Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Ricardo H Krüger
- Enzymology Laboratory, Cell Biology Department, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Eliane F Noronha
- Enzymology Laboratory, Cell Biology Department, Universidade de Brasília (UnB), Brasília 70910-900, Brazil.
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2
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Jaimes-Paez CD, García-Mateos FJ, Ruiz-Rosas R, Rodríguez-Mirasol J, Cordero T, Morallón E, Cazorla-Amorós D. Sustainable Synthesis of Metal-Doped Lignin-Derived Electrospun Carbon Fibers for the Development of ORR Electrocatalysts. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:2921. [PMID: 37999275 PMCID: PMC10674835 DOI: 10.3390/nano13222921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work is to establish the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) activity of self-standing electrospun carbon fiber catalysts obtained from different metallic salt/lignin solutions. Through a single-step electrospinning technique, freestanding carbon fiber (CF) electrodes embedded with various metal nanoparticles (Co, Fe, Pt, and Pd), with 8-16 wt% loadings, were prepared using organosolv lignin as the initial material. These fibers were formed from a solution of lignin and ethanol, into which the metallic salt precursors were introduced, without additives or the use of toxic reagents. The resulting non-woven cloths were thermostabilized in air and then carbonized at 900 °C. The presence of metals led to varying degrees of porosity development during carbonization, improving the accessibility of the electrolyte to active sites. The obtained Pt and Pd metal-loaded carbon fibers showed high nanoparticle dispersion. The performance of the electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction was assessed in alkaline and acidic electrolytes and compared to establish which metals were the most suitable for producing carbon fibers with the highest electrocatalytic activity. In accordance with their superior dispersion and balanced pore size distribution, the carbon fibers loaded with 8 wt% palladium showed the best ORR activity, with onset potentials of 0.97 and 0.95 V in alkaline and acid media, respectively. In addition, this electrocatalyst exhibits good stability and selectivity for the four-electron energy pathway while using lower metal loadings compared to commercial catalysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Daniel Jaimes-Paez
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto Universitario de Materiales de Alicante (IUMA), University of Alicante, Ap. 99, 03080 Alicante, Spain; (C.D.J.-P.); (E.M.)
| | - Francisco José García-Mateos
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Andalucía Tech, University of Malaga, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (F.J.G.-M.); (J.R.-M.); (T.C.)
| | - Ramiro Ruiz-Rosas
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Andalucía Tech, University of Malaga, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (F.J.G.-M.); (J.R.-M.); (T.C.)
| | - José Rodríguez-Mirasol
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Andalucía Tech, University of Malaga, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (F.J.G.-M.); (J.R.-M.); (T.C.)
| | - Tomás Cordero
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Andalucía Tech, University of Malaga, Campus de Teatinos s/n, 29010 Malaga, Spain; (F.J.G.-M.); (J.R.-M.); (T.C.)
| | - Emilia Morallón
- Departamento de Química Física, Instituto Universitario de Materiales de Alicante (IUMA), University of Alicante, Ap. 99, 03080 Alicante, Spain; (C.D.J.-P.); (E.M.)
| | - Diego Cazorla-Amorós
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Instituto Universitario de Materiales de Alicante (IUMA), University of Alicante, Ap. 99, 03080 Alicante, Spain
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3
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Herrera R, Poohphajai F, Sandak A, Gordobil O. Simultaneous Improvement of Surface Wettability and UV Resistance of Wood with Lignin-Based Treatments. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3409. [PMID: 37631466 PMCID: PMC10459571 DOI: 10.3390/polym15163409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in wood modification aim to enhance the inherent qualities of this versatile biological material, which includes renewability, ease of processing, and thermal insulation. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of lignin as a protective agent for less durable wood species, namely, Pinus nigra and Fagus sylvatica L. The impregnation of wood with three various forms of lignin, such as kraft lignin, acetylated kraft lignin, and lignin nanoparticles, was carried out using the vacuum technique at room conditions. The results showed that the treatments significantly improve the hydrophobicity of wood surfaces, particularly in pine wood, and provide protection against UV ageing. Additionally, the treatments contributed to the stabilisation of moisture content at different humidity levels. Although slight colour variations were observed, their impact on the visual appearance was minimal, and the thermal analysis confirmed enhanced thermal properties. Additionally, plasma treatment further enhanced hydrophobicity after treatments, offering potential benefits in terms of moisture resistance and durability. The findings of this study highlight the promising effects of lignin-based treatments on wood properties, providing sustainable solutions for wood protection in various sectors. However, further optimisation is needed to fully explore the potential of lignin and lignin nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rene Herrera
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Plaza Europa 1, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
- InnoRenew CoE, Livade 6a, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (F.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Faksawat Poohphajai
- InnoRenew CoE, Livade 6a, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (F.P.); (A.S.)
- Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Anna Sandak
- InnoRenew CoE, Livade 6a, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (F.P.); (A.S.)
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Glagoljaška 8, 6000 Koper, Slovenia
- Andrej Marušič Institute, University of Primorska, Titov Trg 4, 6000 Koper, Slovenia
| | - Oihana Gordobil
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Plaza Europa 1, 20018 Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
- InnoRenew CoE, Livade 6a, 6310 Izola, Slovenia; (F.P.); (A.S.)
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Shi K, Liu G, Sun H, Weng Y. Polylactic Acid/Lignin Composites: A Review. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2807. [PMID: 37447453 DOI: 10.3390/polym15132807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
With the gradual depletion of petroleum resources and the increasing global awareness of environmental protection, biodegradable plastics are receiving more and more attention as a green substitute for traditional petroleum-based plastics. Poly (lactic acid) is considered to be the most promising biodegradable material because of its excellent biodegradability, biocompatibility, and good processability. However, the brittleness and high cost limit its application in more fields. Lignin, as the second largest renewable biopolymer in nature after cellulose, is not only rich in reserves and low in cost, but it also has an excellent UV barrier, antioxidant activity, and rigidity. The molecular structure of lignin contains a large number of functional groups, which are easy to endow with new functions by chemical modification. Currently, lignin is mostly treated as waste in industry, and the value-added utilization is insufficient. The combination of lignin and poly (lactic acid) can on the one hand solve the problems of the high cost of PLA and less efficient utilization of lignin; on the other hand, the utilization of lignocellulosic biomass in compounding with biodegradable synthetic polymers is expected to afford high-performance wholly green polymer composites. This mini-review summarizes the latest research achievements of poly (lactic acid)/lignin composites. Emphasis was put on the influence of lignin on the mechanical properties of its composite with poly (lactic acid), as well as the compatibility of the two components. Future research on these green composites is also prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Shi
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Guoshuai Liu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Hui Sun
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yunxuan Weng
- College of Chemistry and Materials Engineering, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Quality Evaluation Technology for Hygiene and Safety of Plastics, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
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5
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Zhang Y, Ren H, Li B, Udin SM, Maarof H, Zhou W, Cheng F, Yang J, Liu Y, Alias H, Duan E. Mechanistic insights into the lignin dissolution behavior in amino acid based deep eutectic solvents. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124829. [PMID: 37210053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) composed by amino acids (L-arginine, L-proline, L-alanine) as the hydrogen bond acceptors (HBAs) and carboxylic acids (formic acid, acetic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid) as hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) were prepared and used for the dissolution of dealkaline lignin (DAL). The mechanism of lignin dissolution in DESs was explored at molecular level by combining the analysis of Kamlet-Taft (K-T) solvatochromic parameters, FTIR spectrum and density functional theory (DFT) calculations of DESs. Firstly, it was found that the formation of new hydrogen bonds between lignin and DESs mainly drove the dissolution of lignin, which were accompanied by the erosion of hydrogen bond networks in both lignin and DESs. The nature of hydrogen bond network within DESs was fundamentally determined by the type and number of functional groups in both HBA and HBD, which affected its ability to form hydrogen bond with lignin. One hydroxyl group and carboxyl group in HBDs provided active protons, which facilitated proton-catalyzed cleavage of β-O-4, thus enhancing the dissolution of DESs. The superfluous functional group resulted in more extensive and stronger hydrogen bond network in the DESs, thus decreasing the lignin dissolving ability. Moreover, it was found that lignin solubility had a closed positive correlation with the subtraction value of α and β (net hydrogen donating ability) of DESs. Among all the investigated DESs, L-alanine/formic acid (1:3) with the strong hydrogen-bond donating ability (acidity), weak hydrogen-bond accepting ability (basicity) and small steric-hindrance effect showed the best lignin dissolving ability (23.99 wt%, 60 °C). On top of that, the value of α and β of L-proline/carboxylic acids DESs showed some positive correlation with the global electrostatic potential (ESP) maxima and minima of the corresponding DESs respectively, indicating the analysis of ESP quantitative distributions of DESs could be an effective tool for DESs screening and design for lignin dissolution as well as other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Zhang
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia; Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - Hongwei Ren
- Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China.
| | - Baochai Li
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia; Department of Applied Chemistry, Hengshui University, Hengshui, Hebei 0530002, China
| | - Syarah Mat Udin
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Hasmerya Maarof
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Wen Zhou
- The State Grid Hebei Electric Power Company Electric Power Research Institute, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050021, China
| | - Fengfei Cheng
- Hebei Pollutant Emission Rights Trading Service Center, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050026, China
| | - Jiaoruo Yang
- Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - Yize Liu
- Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China
| | - Hajar Alias
- Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), 81310 Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
| | - Erhong Duan
- Pollution Prevention Biotechnology Laboratory of Hebei Province, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Science and Technology, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050018, China.
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Yiamsawas D, Watcharin K, Pongprayoon T. Enhanced Performance of Lignin Recovery with a Carbon Dioxide Acidification Method. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:7438-7447. [PMID: 36872975 PMCID: PMC9979364 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c06153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Lignin particles were recovered from the bagasse soda pulping black liquor by acidification with carbon dioxide continuously fed in a semibatch reactor. An experimental model based on the response surface methodology was selected to investigate the effect of parameters and optimize the process for maximizing the lignin yield, and the physicochemical properties of the obtained lignin under the optimum conditions were investigated for further potential applications. A total of 15 experimental runs of three controlled parameters including temperature, pressure, and residence time were carried out based on the Box-Behnken design (BBD). The mathematic model for lignin yield prediction was successfully estimated at 99.7% accuracy. Temperature played a more significant role in lignin yield than pressure and residence time. Higher temperature could faciltate a higher lignin yield. Approximately 85 wt % lignin yield was obtained under the optimum conditions with a purity higher than 90%, high thermal stability, and slightly broad molecular weight distribution. The p-hydroxyphenyl-guaiacyl-syringyl (HGS)-type lignin structure and spherical shape were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). These characteristics confirmed that the obtained lignin could be used in high-value products. Moreover, this work indicated that the CO2 acidification unit for lignin recovery could be efficiently improved for achieving high yield and purity from black liquor by adjustment of the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doungporn Yiamsawas
- National
Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National
Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120, Thailand
| | - Kitsada Watcharin
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
- Center
of Eco-Materials and Cleaner Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
| | - Thirawudh Pongprayoon
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
- Center
of Eco-Materials and Cleaner Technology, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Bangkok 10800, Thailand
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Puss KK, Loog M, Salmar S. Ultrasound enhanced solubilization of forest biorefinery hydrolysis lignin in mild alkaline conditions. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2023; 93:106288. [PMID: 36621089 PMCID: PMC9841232 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2022.106288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In the forest biorefinery, hydrolysis lignin (HL) is often dissolved with high concentration NaOH solution, followed by acid precipitation to obtain purified HL. For the first time, this study evaluates the effect of ultrasound (US) on the dissolution of industrially produced HL in aqueous NaOH solutions and the acid precipitation yield of HL. The solubility of HL in mild aqueous NaOH solutions was studied with and without US treatment at 20 kHz concerning the solid-to-liquid ratio, molecular weight of dissolved fractions and structural changes in dissolved HL. Results showed that the solubility of HL at 25 °C was strongly dependent on NaOH concentration. However, the US treatment significantly improved the solubility of HL, reaching a solubility plateau at 0.1 NaOH/HL ratio. US treatment enhanced the solubilization of HL molecules with higher MW compared to conventional mixing. The increase of HL solubility was up to 30 % and the recovery yield of purified lignin with acid precipitation was 37 % higher in dilute NaOH solution. A significant result was that the Mw of dissolved HL in homogeneous alkali solutions decreased with US treatment. SEC, HSQC and 31P NMR analyses of dissolved HL characteristics showed that both, the mechanoacoustic and sonochemical solubilization pathways contribute to the dissolution process. However, US does not cause major changes in the HL structure compared to the native lignin. Indeed, US technology has the potential to advance the dissolution and purification of HL in biorefineries by reducing the amount of chemicals required; thus, more controlled and environmentally friendly conditions can be used in HL valorization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kait Kaarel Puss
- The Core Laboratory for Wood Chemistry and Bioprocessing, University of Tartu, Institute of Chemistry, Ravila 14a, Tartu, Estonia; The Core Laboratory for Wood Chemistry and Bioprocessing, University of Tartu, Institute of Technology, Nooruse 1, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Mart Loog
- The Core Laboratory for Wood Chemistry and Bioprocessing, University of Tartu, Institute of Technology, Nooruse 1, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Siim Salmar
- The Core Laboratory for Wood Chemistry and Bioprocessing, University of Tartu, Institute of Chemistry, Ravila 14a, Tartu, Estonia
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Advanced Fractionation of Kraft Lignin by Aqueous Hydrotropic Solutions. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 28:molecules28020687. [PMID: 36677747 PMCID: PMC9867506 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Lignin is an underutilized high-potential biopolymer that has been extensively studied over the past few decades. However, lignin still has drawbacks when compared with well-known petroleum-based equivalents, and the production of tailored lignin fractions is highly in demand. In this work, a new method for the fractionation of Lignoboost Kraft Lignin (LKL) is proposed by using two different hydrotropes: sodium xylenesulfonate (SXS) and sodium cumenesulfonate (SCS). The different fractions are obtained by sequentially decreasing the hydrotropic concentration with the addition of water. Four and three different fractions were retrieved from the use of SXS and SCS, respectively. The LKL and respective fractions were analysed, and compared by GPC, FTIR-ATR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, 31P NMR, 2D HSQC and SEM. The fractions showed different molecular weights, polydispersity, and amount of functional groups. Our water-based lignin fractionation platform can potentially be combined with different lignin extraction and processing technologies, with the advantage of hydrotrope recycling.
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Systems metabolic engineering upgrades Corynebacterium glutamicum to high-efficiency cis, cis-muconic acid production from lignin-based aromatics. Metab Eng 2023; 75:153-169. [PMID: 36563956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Lignin displays a highly challenging renewable. To date, massive amounts of lignin, generated in lignocellulosic processing facilities, are for the most part merely burned due to lacking value-added alternatives. Aromatic lignin monomers of recognized relevance are in particular vanillin, and to a lesser extent vanillate, because they are accessible at high yield from softwood-lignin using industrially operated alkaline oxidative depolymerization. Here, we metabolically engineered C. glutamicum towards cis, cis-muconate (MA) production from these key aromatics. Starting from the previously created catechol-based producer C. glutamicum MA-2, systems metabolic engineering first discovered an unspecific aromatic aldehyde reductase that formed aromatic alcohols from vanillin, protocatechualdehyde, and p- hydroxybenzaldehyde, and was responsible for the conversion up to 57% of vanillin into vanillyl alcohol. The alcohol was not re-consumed by the microbe later, posing a strong drawback on the producer. The identification and subsequent elimination of the encoding fudC gene completely abolished vanillyl alcohol formation. Second, the initially weak flux through the native vanillin and vanillate metabolism was enhanced up to 2.9-fold by implementing synthetic pathway modules. Third, the most efficient protocatechuate decarboxylase AroY for conversion of the midstream pathway intermediate protocatechuate into catechol was identified out of several variants in native and codon optimized form and expressed together with the respective helper proteins. Fourth, the streamlined modules were all genomically combined which yielded the final strain MA-9. MA-9 produced bio-based MA from vanillin, vanillate, and seven structurally related aromatics at maximum selectivity. In addition, MA production from softwood-based vanillin, obtained through alkaline depolymerization, was demonstrated.
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10
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Rodríguez-Escribano D, Pliego-Magán R, de Salas F, Aza P, Gentili P, Ihalainen P, Levée T, Meyer V, Petit-Conil M, Tapin-Lingua S, Lecourt M, Camarero S. Tailor-made alkaliphilic and thermostable fungal laccases for industrial wood processing. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR BIOFUELS AND BIOPRODUCTS 2022; 15:149. [PMID: 36581887 PMCID: PMC9798632 DOI: 10.1186/s13068-022-02247-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the kraft process to obtain cellulosic pulp from wood, most of the lignin is removed by high-temperature alkaline cooking, released in the black liquors and usually incinerated for energy. However, kraft lignins are a valuable source of phenolic compounds that can be valorized in new bio-based products. The aim of this work is to develop laccases capable of working under the extreme conditions of high temperature and pH, typical of the industrial conversion of wood into kraft pulp and fibreboard, in order to provide extremophilic biocatalysts for depolymerising kraft lignin, and enzyme-assisted technologies for kraft pulp and fibreboard production. RESULTS Through systematic enzyme engineering, combining enzyme-directed evolution and rational design, we changed the optimal pH of the laccase for oxidation of lignin phenols from acidic to basic, enhanced the catalytic activity at alkaline pH and increased the thermal tolerance of the enzyme by accumulating up to eight mutations in the protein sequence. The extremophilic laccase variants show maximum activity at 70 °C and oxidize kraft lignin at pH 10. Their integration into industrial-type processes saves energy and chemicals. As a pre-bleaching stage, the enzymes promote kraft pulp bleachability and significantly reduce the need for chlorine dioxide compared to the industrial sequence. Their application in wood chips during fibreboard production, facilitates the defibering stage, with less energy required. CONCLUSIONS A set of new alkaliphilic and thermophilic fungal laccases has been developed to operate under the extreme conditions of high temperature and pH typical of industrial wood conversion processes. For the first time basidiomycete laccases of high-redox potential show activity on lignin-derived phenols and polymeric lignin at pH 10. Considering the extreme conditions of current industrial processes for kraft pulp and fibreboard production, the new tailor-made laccases constitute a step forward towards turning kraft pulp mills into biorefineries. Their use as biocatalysts in the wood conversion sector is expected to support the development of more environmentally sound and efficient processes, and more sustainable products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rocío Pliego-Magán
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC. Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Felipe de Salas
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC. Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Aza
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC. Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Patrizia Gentili
- Sapienza Università Di Roma, Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185 Rome, RM Italy
| | | | - Thomas Levée
- MetGen Oy, Rakentajantie 26, 20780 Kaarina, Finland
| | - Valérie Meyer
- Centre Technique du Papier (CTP), Domaine Universitaire, 38044 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | - Michel Petit-Conil
- Centre Technique du Papier (CTP), Domaine Universitaire, 38044 Grenoble Cedex 9, France
| | | | - Michael Lecourt
- FCBA Institut Technologique, 341 Rue de La Papeterie, 38610 Gières, France
| | - Susana Camarero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC. Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Lignin, a rigid polymer composed of phenolic subunits with high molecular weight and complex structure, ranks behind only cellulose in the contribution to the biomass of plants. Therefore, lignin can be used as a new environmentally friendly resource for the industrial production of a variety of polymers, dyes and adhesives. Since laccase was found to be able to degrade lignin, increasing attention had been paid to the valorization of lignin. Research has mainly focused on the identification of lignin-degrading enzymes, which play a key role in lignin biodegradation, and the potential application of lignin degradation products. In this review, we describe the source, catalytic specificity and enzyme reaction mechanism of the four classes of the lignin-degrading enzymes so far discovered. In addition, the major pathways of lignin biodegradation and the applications of the degradative products are also discussed. Lignin-degrading bacteria or enzymes can be used in combination with chemical pretreatment for the production of value-added chemicals from lignin, providing a promising strategy for lignin valorization.
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Mayr SA, Subagia R, Weiss R, Schwaiger N, Weber HK, Leitner J, Ribitsch D, Nyanhongo GS, Guebitz GM. Oxidation of Various Kraft Lignins with a Bacterial Laccase Enzyme. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222313161. [PMID: 34884966 PMCID: PMC8658217 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222313161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Modification of kraft lignin (KL), traditionally uses harsh and energy-demanding physical and chemical processes. In this study, the potential of the bacterial laccase CotA (spore coating protein A) for oxidation of KL under mild conditions was assessed. Thereby, the efficiency of CotA to oxidize both softwood and hardwood KL of varying purity at alkaline conditions was examined. For the respective type of wood, the highest oxidation activity by CotA was determined for the medium ash content softwood KL (MA_S) and the medium ash content hardwood KL (MA_H), respectively. By an up to 95% decrease in fluorescence and up to 65% in phenol content coupling of the structural lignin units was indicated. These results correlated with an increase in viscosity and molecular weight, which increased nearly 2 and 20-fold for MA_H and about 1.3 and 6.0-fold for MA_S, respectively. Thus, this study confirms that the CotA laccase can oxidize a variety of KL at alkaline conditions, while the origin and purity of KL were found to have a major impact on the efficiency of oxidation. Under the herein tested conditions, it was observed that the MA_H KL showed the highest susceptibility to CotA oxidation when compared to the other hardwood KLs and the softwood KLs. Therefore, this could be a viable method to produce sustainable resins and adhesives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian A. Mayr
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (S.A.M.); (D.R.); (G.S.N.); (G.M.G.)
| | - Raditya Subagia
- Austrian Centre for Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Renate Weiss
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (S.A.M.); (D.R.); (G.S.N.); (G.M.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-47654-97486
| | - Nikolaus Schwaiger
- Sappi Paper Holding GmbH, Brucker Strasse 21, 8101 Gratkorn, Austria; (N.S.); (H.K.W.)
| | - Hedda K. Weber
- Sappi Paper Holding GmbH, Brucker Strasse 21, 8101 Gratkorn, Austria; (N.S.); (H.K.W.)
| | | | - Doris Ribitsch
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (S.A.M.); (D.R.); (G.S.N.); (G.M.G.)
- Austrian Centre for Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Gibson S. Nyanhongo
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (S.A.M.); (D.R.); (G.S.N.); (G.M.G.)
- Austrian Centre for Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
| | - Georg M. Guebitz
- Institute of Environmental Biotechnology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria; (S.A.M.); (D.R.); (G.S.N.); (G.M.G.)
- Austrian Centre for Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB), Konrad Lorenz Strasse 20, 3430 Tulln, Austria;
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13
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Winestrand S, Järnström L, Jönsson LJ. Fractionated Lignosulfonates for Laccase-Catalyzed Oxygen-Scavenging Films and Coatings. Molecules 2021; 26:6322. [PMID: 34684902 PMCID: PMC8537236 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26206322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lignin derivatives have potential as antioxidants in advanced packaging materials through their ability to scavenge oxygen in reactions catalyzed by phenol-oxidizing enzymes, such as laccase. The effects of size fractionation of lignosulfonates on laccase-catalyzed reactions were investigated in experiments with aqueous solutions, films, and coated paperboard. Four industrial lignosulfonate preparations were compared: Feed (unfractionated), Prod (5-60 kDa enriched), Conc (≥60 kDa enriched), and Perm (≤60 kDa enriched). Extraction of lignosulfonates from films showed that the enzymic reaction increased the average molecular weight from <10,000 to up to 66,000. The enzymatic reaction resulted in an increase in the water contact angle of the films from the range 25-49° to 56-81°. The four preparations showed relatively small differences with regard to their ability to scavenge oxygen in aqueous solution and in experiments with coated paperboards in sealed chambers. Coatings with lignosulfonates where the contents of low-molecular weight material had been reduced (i.e., Prod and Conc) showed improved water resistance after the enzymic reaction. Thus, in both aqueous and solid media, fractionation of lignosulfonates had little effect on oxygen scavenging, but fractionation was beneficial for other reasons, such as improved cross-linking resulting in higher molecular weight and superior water resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lars Järnström
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Karlstad University, SE-651 88 Karlstad, Sweden;
| | - Leif J. Jönsson
- Department of Chemistry, Umeå University, SE-901 87 Umeå, Sweden;
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Piccinino D, Capecchi E, Delfino I, Crucianelli M, Conte N, Avitabile D, Saladino R. Green and Scalable Preparation of Colloidal Suspension of Lignin Nanoparticles and Its Application in Eco-friendly Sunscreen Formulations. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:21444-21456. [PMID: 34471747 PMCID: PMC8387983 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c02268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) are applied in several industrial applications. The nanoprecipitation of LNPs is fast and inexpensive but currently still limited to the use of hazardous organic solvents, making it difficult to apply them on a large scale. Here, we report a scalable nanoprecipitation procedure for the preparation of colloidal lignin nanoparticles (cLNPs) by the use of the green solvents dimethylisosorbide and isopropylidene glycerol. Irrespective of the experimental conditions, cLNPs showed higher UV absorbing properties and radical scavenging activity than parent LNPs and raw lignin. cLNPs were successively used in the preparation of eco-friendly sunscreen formulations (SPF 15, 30, and 50+, as evaluated by the COLIPA assay), which showed high UV-shielding activity even in the absence of synthetic boosters (microplastics) and physical filters (TiO2 and ZnO). Biological assays on human HaCaT keratinocytes and human skin equivalents demonstrated the absence of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity, associated with an optimal protection of the skin from UV-A damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Piccinino
- Department
of Biological and Ecological Sciences, University
of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Eliana Capecchi
- Department
of Biological and Ecological Sciences, University
of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Ines Delfino
- Department
of Biological and Ecological Sciences, University
of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Marcello Crucianelli
- Department
of Physical and Chemical Sciences, University
of Aquila, Via Vetoio
I, Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Nicola Conte
- IDI
Farmaceutici, Via dei castelli Romani 73/75, Pomezia 00071, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Avitabile
- IDI
Farmaceutici, Via dei castelli Romani 73/75, Pomezia 00071, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Saladino
- Department
of Biological and Ecological Sciences, University
of Tuscia, Via S. Camillo de Lellis, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
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