Synthesis of Lignin-Based Nanomaterials

Lignin, a complex organic polymer, stands as one of nature's most abundant renewable resources. Lignin has emerged as a prime candidate for biobased nanomaterials because of its inherent attractive properties such as high carbon content, thermal stability, biodegradability, and antioxidant activity. Lignin-based nanomaterials find application in various fields as polymer fillers, metal ion sorbents, nutrient and drug delivery systems, concrete admixtures, thermal stabilizers, and more. On the other hand, the production of lignin-based nanomaterials faces some challenges related to the solubility of lignin, non-uniform size distribution, irregular shapes of the produced structures, and its complex structure, which varies depending on the biosource and production method and is difficult to identify. Despite these challenges, ongoing research and technological advancements aim to overcome these obstacles, unlocking the full potential of lignin-based nanomaterials for a wide range of innovative applications.
In this project, the synthesis of lignin nanoparticles and nanofibers will be investigated. Students will utilize wet chemical synthesis methods and electrospinning technique to produce lignin-based nanomaterials, and subsequently, explore the properties of these newly formed materials.