Research report 2012 - Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung

Catalytic milling: A new entry point for lignocellulose biorefineries

Authors
Meine, Niklas; Hilgert, Jakob; Kaldstrom, Mats; Rinaldi, Roberto; Schüth, Ferdi
Departments
Heterogene Katalyse
Summary
Lignocellulose is an attractive feedstock for the production of fuels and chemicals. Unfortunately, the disintegration of this complex biopolymer is very difficult. Acid impregnation and mechanical treatment can be combined to result in a fully water-soluble product. The lignin is easily separated from the aqueous solution. The remaining compounds can be selectively converted to monomeric sugars or sugar alcohols using different catalytic processes. Moreover, fermentation for the production of ethanol is possible as well. These findings open up new possibilites for the use of biomass.

For the full text, see the German version.

Go to Editor View