Lignin as an Active Biomaterial: A Review

Abstract

Lignin is the second most naturally abundant biopolymer in the cell wall of lignocellulosic compound (15-35%) after cellulose.Lignin can be generated in massive amounts as by-products in biorefineries and pulp and paper industries through differing processes. Most lignin is utilized as generating energy and has always been treated as waste. Due to the high amount of phenolic compounds in lignin, it is considered as a potential material for various polymers, building blocks, and biomaterials production. Even though lignin can be utilized in the form of isolated lignin directly, the modification of lignin can increase the wide range of lignin applications. Lignin-based copolymers and modified lignin show better miscibility with another polymeric matrix, outstanding to the enhanced performance of such lignin-based polymer composites.This article summarizes the properly updated information of lignin’s potential applications, such as bio-surfactant, active packaging, antimicrobial agent, and supercapacitor. Keywords: active packaging, antimicrobial agent, bio-surfactant, lignin, supercapacitor