Controlled hydrogenolysis over heterogeneous catalysts for lignin valorization

ABSTRACT Aromatic monomers from controlled lignin depolymerization are a possible valorization of biomass lignin-residues generated in cellulosic biorefineries and in current pulp and paper industries. Among different lignin depolymerization approaches, selective catalytic hydrogenolysis is a potential pathway for lignin conversion into desired aromatics. This review provides a summary of recent work on reductive hydrogenolysis over heterogeneous catalysts aimed at: i) inter-unit ether linkage cleavage, ii) formulation of active catalysts, and iii) hydrogenolysis of native lignins and aromatic product distribution.