Lignin is one of the most abundant bio-polymers present in nature and its valorization is still a challenge to an economically feasible biorefinery concept. The heterogeneity and scarce reactivity of lignin are significant hurdles to the development of new valorization processes. We propose an in situ extraction electrochemical depolymerization system. Kraft lignin dissolved in a deep eutectic solvent together with an extractant phase is able to form a stable emulsion. Electro-oxidation of the emulsion using a nickel or graphite electrode results in successful depolymerization and simultaneous fractionation of the products. Over-oxidation of the depolymerization products is anticipated to be suppressed upon swift extraction from the lignin phase into the extraction phase.

中文翻译：

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牛皮纸木质素的乳液电氧化

木质素是自然界中存在的最丰富的生物聚合物之一，其木质素的增值仍然对经济上可行的生物精炼概念提出了挑战。木质素的异质性和稀缺的反应性是开发新的增值过程的重要障碍。我们提出了一种原位萃取电化学解聚体系。溶解在深共熔溶剂中的硫酸盐木质素与萃取剂相能够形成稳定的乳液。使用镍或石墨电极对乳液进行电氧化可成功解聚并同时分馏产物。从木质素相快速萃取到萃取相中，预计可以抑制解聚产物的过氧化。