Lignin cut down to size by nickel catalyst
by
James Urquhart, RSC
—
last modified
04-25-11 03:42 AM
Copyright 2011, RSC
Lignin is found in abundance in biomass, but its complex structure makes it difficult to convert into useful chemicals
A nickel-based homogeneous catalyst that breaks down lignin - the tough polymer that forms plant cell walls - into useful building blocks suitable for chemicals, including green fuels, has been developed by US scientists. The team says that the nickel catalyst is more efficient than current heterogeneous catalysts, although industrial applications are still some way off. More...
http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2011/April/21041104.asp
