Molecular weight and distribution of the copolymer of lignin/phenol in the copolymerization catalyzed by peroxidase

The molecular weight and distribution of the lignin/cresol polymer in peroxidase-catalyzed copolymerization of lignin with cresol in the reversed micellar system can be controlled by adjusting the concentration of surfactant, enzyme, cresol, lignin and the ratio of alcohol to hydrocarbon in the organic phase. The maximal mean molecular weight of copolymer obtained is up to 1890 kDa. The surfactant sustains the chain of the copolymer growth. The cresol or/and polycresol is incorporated into the copolymer, and the thermal property of the copolymer become well. The synthesized copolymer precipitates and can be easily recovered. The materials appear to act as thermosets and may have application as replacements of conventional phenolic resins.