Alternative polymer feedstocks are highly desirable to address environmental, social, and security concerns associated with petrochemical-based materials. Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) has emerged as one critical feedstock in this regard because it is an abundant and ubiquitous renewable resource. LCB can be deconstructed to generate valuable fuels, chemicals, and small molecules/oligomers that are amenable to modification and polymerization. However, the diversity of LCB complicates the evaluation of biorefinery concepts in areas including process scale-up, production outputs, plant economics, and life-cycle management. We discuss aspects of current LCB biorefinery research with a focus on the major process stages, including feedstock selection, fractionation/deconstruction, and characterization, along with product purification, functionalization, and polymerization to manufacture valuable macromolecular materials. We highlight opportunities to valorize underutilized and complex feedstocks, leverage advanced characterization techniques to predict and manage biorefinery outputs, and increase the fraction of biomass converted into valuable products.
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Biobased Silicon and Biobased Silica: Two Production Routes Whose Time has Come**
Abstract This study offers an updated bioeconomy perspective on biobased routes to high‐purity silicon and silica in the context of the societal, economic and environmental trends reshaping chemical processes. We summarize the main aspects of the green chemistry technologies capable of transforming current production methods. Coincidentally, we discuss selected industrial and economic aspects. Finally, we offer perspectives of how said technologies could/will reshape current chemical and energy production.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2103602
- PAR ID:
- 10525823
- Editor(s):
- Ross, H
- Publisher / Repository:
- chemistry europe
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- ChemSusChem
- Edition / Version:
- 1
- Volume:
- 16
- Issue:
- 19
- ISSN:
- 1864-5631
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- e202300762
- Subject(s) / Keyword(s):
- Sol-gel processing, spirosiloxane, high purity silica, high purity silicon
- Format(s):
- Medium: X Size: 1 Other: csx
- Size(s):
- 1
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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