Flow-through reductive catalytic fractionation of beech wood sawdust

The implementation of flow-through (FT) systems in the lignin-first approach can be a strategic tool for increasing the proficiency of biorefineries. Herein, the reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) of waste beech wood sawdust (BWS) was conducted in an FT system using Ni on a nitrogen-doped carbon catalyst (35Ni/NDC) in pellet shape and MeOH and MeTHF as solvents. Lignin extraction was maximized in the first 4 h of time on stream (TOS), yielding maximum cumulative monomers of 247 mg gKL-1 using MeOH as solvent, extraction temperature of 235 degrees C, and reduction temperature of 225 degrees C. Importantly, the catalyst was used for two cycles and total time on stream (TOS) of 14 h without losing initial activity. These findings show that FT systems represent a promising solution for applications in lignin-first biorefineries. The use of flow-through (FT) systems in the lignin-first approach can improve the proficiency of the process. Herein, the reductive catalytic fractionation of beech wood sawdust was conducted in an FT system using 35Ni/NDC pellets.