SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION OF LIGNIN-DERIVED END-PRODUCTS VIA DEPOLYMERISATION REACTIONS

Objective

SPLENDOR aims to demonstrate a groundbreaking one-step depolymerization technology that efficiently converts lignin from black liquor, a pulping industry byproduct, into valuable aromatic chemicals, without the need for pre-treatment, additional chemicals, or catalysts. This process integrates seamlessly into pulp mills, enhancing scalability and cost-efficiency. It achieves complete conversion of lignin into bio-aromatic monomers, dimers, and oligomers, while recycling inorganic chemicals back to the mill in a zero-waste approach. SPLENDOR will optimize the conversion of black liquor into high-value aromatic chemicals like vanillin and syringol using advanced analytics and microkinetic modeling to manage lignin variability. The long-term continuous operation of the hydrothermal depolymerization process will be performed to address engineering challenges. Separation and purification technologies will be designed and integrated to ensure a 99% product recovery, optimized for further valorization. A 250 L/h prototype will operate for six months in an operational pulp mill, providing data for future scale-up to a 5000 L/h plant. The project will also develop four industrial applications - fine chemicals, waterproofing coatings, plasticizers for tires, and fuel components - and showcase their market potential. SPLENDOR supports a circular economy by converting black liquor into high-value bio-based chemicals, improving resource efficiency, and boosting the European chemical industry's economic viability. By reducing reliance on fossil-based chemicals and integrating production at the lignin source, SPLENDOR enhances European competitiveness and reduces transport-related emissions. The project complies with EU safety regulations and REACH standards, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and environmentally friendly products. Upon commercialization SPLENDOR is expected to save over 800,000 tons of CO2 annually, advancing Europe’s climate goals and circular economy targets.