Lignin, a by-product in the paper industry, could replace fossil-derived materials and may be used as a catalyst for the development of bio-based polyesters
[Translated by Dr. Nachmani Moshe]
![Biocatalysts (located at the bottom of the vial), anchored to spherical lignin particles contained within a natural polymer, open a window to green synthetic reactions in the presence of water [courtesy: Valeria Azovskaya]](https://www.hayadan.org.il/images/content3/2018/08/slign-press-repease-image_22-05-2018_en_en-500x286.jpg)
Researchers from Aalto University and York University succeeded in producing a water-repellent composite structure from lignin particles, a structure with the help of which the enzymes or biocatalysts can be separated from an aqueous environment. The breakthrough was discovered when the researchers revealed that by regulating the electrical charge on the surface of lignin particles, enzymes can be attached to them. The starting point for the research was the need to utilize the material lignin, a by-product in the paper industry, for new uses on a large scale. The researchers were surprised to discover that when these lignin particles are used, they succeed in doubling the efficiency of the enzymes' activity and enable the circulation of the enzymes in a synthetic reaction that would otherwise not occur in an aqueous environment. "The beauty of this method is in its simplicity and the ability to expand it to a large scale. We are already able to produce lignin particles in quantities of kilograms. It goes without saying that we hope that this method will become a viable alternative in the enzyme industry and can replace fossil-derived materials," says the lead researcher.
The lignin not only doubled the efficiency of the enzyme, but it showed good results compared to similar materials available on the market, which were produced from non-sustainable sources. "The commercial enzyme we used as a reference enzyme for comparison was attached to the surface of a synthetic acrylic resin produced from fossil-derived raw materials. In comparison, this innovative biocatalyst was twice as effective," explains the researcher. During the reaction, alcohol and organic acid formed in the production of biofuel lead to obtaining a water-insoluble ester with a pineapple smell. The process also leads to new possibilities for the production of biobased polyesters.
"We are satisfied that many years of research in the field of lignin particles is beginning to bear fruit and lead to significant results. We are simulating several possible uses for our spherical lignin particles in the field of green chemistry and in the field of developing new materials," says the lead researcher.
