Reactive extrusion of lignin

Lead Institute HF Institute of Wood Research

Lignin modification by reactive extrusion for bio-based paper coatings.

The implementation of the EU Circular Economy Package and the European Plastics Strategy mean that more efforts are needed to prevent, reuse or recycle packaging waste.Lignin-based packaging and coating materials can be used as an alternative to common plastics.However, laboratory-proven methods must be further developed into application-suitable processes.

Background and Objective

The aim of this research project is a chemical modification of lignin by an reactive extrusion process.Modified lignins are processed into dispersions, applied to paper surfaces and used as bio-based barrier material.The use of lignin and the use of sustainable packaging materials contributes to the achievement of societal goals in the bio-based economy, compliance with legal requirements and progress in the general development of bio-based plastics.

Approach

The project includes the chemical modification of lignin based on the procedure developed at the Thünen Institute.The reactions should be carried out in laboratory flasks and kneader and subsequently transferred to twin-screw extruders.The products are comprehensively characterized, converted into dispersions and used for paper coating.The properties of the coatings with regard to gas permeability and UV stability should then be tested.