New Opportunities in the Valorization of Technical Lignins (external link)
Most recent review paper published by the Lignin Chemistry Group
Lignin Analytics
Lignin Engineering
Integrated Biorefinery
Our core knowledge is in deep understanding of lignin chemistry and technology. We are working on engineering of optimal lignins for specific applications by elucidating the correlation between process conditions, lignin structure, lignin properties and application performance. To achieve this challenging, yet very important task, we cooperate with artificial intelligence groups and application experts at our Department, University and worldwide.
Lignin Engineering: Process, Structure, Properties, and Application Performance
For more information click here:https://doi.org/10.1002/cssc.202002553
Lignin Analytics: New Model of Spruce Lignin
For more information click here: https://doi.org/10.1039/D0GC00926A
Integrated biorefinery: lignin micro-/nanoparticles from biorefinery lignin
For more information click here:https://doi.org/10.1021/acssuschemeng.9b06511
Lignin is the only large renewable source of green aromatic chemicals and polymers and therefore the key player in the modern and future biorefinery. However, lignin commercialization for high-value products is very challenging due to its very complex nature and the high variety of different technical lignins. Our group is addressing this challenge by developing best lignin types for specific applications via understanding the correlation between process conditions, lignin structures and properties and their performance in specific applications using advanced methodology (new biorefinery processes, cutting-edge analytics, artificial intelligence).
We are looking for further fruitful cooperation with different groups working in various areas of lignin production and applications in academia, research institutes and industry.
We focus on state-of-the-art analysis of lignin and lignin carbohydrate complexes
Comparison of Different NMR Methods:
These methods are complementary;
The best method is dependent on the research task and substrate type
Lignin structure on a functional level can be described comprehensively by advanced 13C NMR.
For more information click here:https://doi.org/10.1039/C5RA16649G
Heteronuclear Single Quantum Coherence (HSQC) Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy
Lignin valorization requires tremendous analytical efforts and method development including lignin structural analysis and, especially, high‐throughput methods for the evaluation of lignin performance in specific applications.
New and comprehensive lignin structure–performance relationships are urgently needed in order to be able to engineer lignins and lignin properties to certain application requirements.
We focus on:
Ligno-cellulosic synergism in biorefinery streams
Integrated biorefinery: full valorization of the feedstock
One-pot reactive extraction of lignin - an efficient strategy for producing upgraded lignins
We collaborate with:
New Academy Projects funded by the Academy of Finland involve expertise from all six Aalto schools
Most recent review paper published by the Lignin Chemistry Group
Structure of spruce MWL
Micro- and nanoparticles from biorefinery lignins by using an aerosol flow system
Click here for more publications (Ligning Chemistry)
Professor of Practice Mikhail Balakshin passed away at his home after a long illness on November 27, 2022. He was Professor of Lignin Chemistry at the Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering beginning in 2018.