LIBRA; LIgnin BioRefinery Approach for Phenolics
Lignin Pyrolysis for the Production of Phenolic Compounds
Bio-based industries, such as pulp- and paper and lignocellulosic biorefineries, produce lignin as a main by-product. Although
lignin is a major renewable source of aromatic chemicals, it is mainly combusted for heat and power. ECN has developed
LIBRA, a lignin biorefinery approach, which uses robust pyrolysis technology. Lignin from different sources, such as straw and
wood is converted into biochar and a phenolic liquid that can be used for various value-added applications.
Industrial application
LIBRA enables the production of specific phenolic
fractions that can be used as bio-resins, bio-bitumen,
bio-fuel additives, aromatic chemicals, such as BTX, and
high-value added aromatics (e.g. fragrances, molecules
for the pharmaceutical and food industries).
Advantages
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LIBRA offers a viable valorization route for lignin,
the main by-product of lignocellulosic-based
industries.
LIBRA includes an efficient, cost-effective and
scaleable pyrolysis technology that does not
require severe conditions and expensive catalysts.
LIBRA enables the processing of lignin from
hardwoods, softwoods, straws and other types of
herbaceous biomass.
LIBRA can be deployed on a stand-alone basis, or
as an integral part of a biorefinery.
LIBRA converts at least 80% of the dry lignin into
valuable materials.
Product yields from the
continuous pyrolysis of
straw-derived CIMV
Biolignin™
Description of the innovation
What is it?
Lignin from different sources is pyrolyzed (i.e. thermally depolymerized in the absence of molecular oxygen) in a dedicated
bubbling fluidized bed reactor at 500°C and atmospheric pressure. This process produces a phenolic bio-oil and biochar, and
is both robust and operates in continuous mode. So far, ECN has successfully provided proof – of – principle and proof – of –
concept at a scale of ~ 1 kg/hr lignin intake. The technology is now ready for scale-up and a study of process economics has
revealed that it is economically feasible.
What does it mean for the customer?
Lignin bio-oil and biochar are good raw material candidates for the manufacture of commercially-valuable products, such as
biochemicals, biomaterials and biofuels. Lignin bio-oil is rich in phenolic compounds and can be used, without further
processing, as a substitute for phenol in many applications, such as the manufacture of particle board and plywood resins.
What can ECN do for you?
Working in collaboration with industry, ECN offers specialized expertise and its know-how in the field of the biobased
economy to customers who wish to develop industrial projects in the biorefining sector. Capable of working within a variety
of contractual frameworks, ECN can help customers to develop economically-feasible biorefinery concepts, using
technologies such as LIBRA.
Scientific leader
Other contact
Paul J. de Wild, PhD
Research scientist
Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN)
dewild@ecn.nl, +31-88-5154270
Jelle Blekxtoon, MSc
Business developer
Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN)
blekxtoon@ecn.nl, +31-88-5154408, +31612531144