This chapter provides a comprehensive review of future perspectives and key challenges associated with the extraction and valorization of lignin from nonwoody biomass. This highlights the critical role of lignin as an abundant aromatic biopolymer in the transition toward a sustainable bioeconomy. Nonwoody biomass, including agricultural residues, represents a sustainable yet underutilized source of lignin characterized by high syringyl-to-guaiacyl (S/G) ratios and significant p-hydroxyphenyl (H) contents. The unique composition influences lignin reactivity and extraction efficiency. The focus has shifted toward innovations in green extraction technologies, approaches to tailor lignin properties for specific applications, and addressing economic and industrial challenges that hinder large-scale commercialization. Traditional extraction processes involve harsh chemicals and high energy inputs, leading to undesirable condensation and structural alterations. In contrast, green extraction technologies, including microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and nonthermal plasma (NTP), along with the use of green solvents such as deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and ionic liquids (ILs), offer more sustainable alternatives. These methods preserve native lignin structures, reduce the environmental impact, and increase the suitability of products for value-added applications. Future directions involve the integration of “lignin-first” biorefinery strategies, computational modeling for solvent screening, and the development of function-specific lignin. These approaches support lignin transformation into biomaterials. However, challenges related to scalability, economic viability, market acceptance, and regulatory compliance remain. Addressing these barriers requires holistic process optimization, stakeholder collaboration, policy support, and consumer education. Ultimately, green lignin extraction from nonwoody biomass is a pivotal advancement toward a circular bioeconomy.

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Future Perspectives and Challenges of Nonwoody Lignin Extraction

  • Mohd Faizal Mohamad,
  • Lee Suan Chua

摘要

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of future perspectives and key challenges associated with the extraction and valorization of lignin from nonwoody biomass. This highlights the critical role of lignin as an abundant aromatic biopolymer in the transition toward a sustainable bioeconomy. Nonwoody biomass, including agricultural residues, represents a sustainable yet underutilized source of lignin characterized by high syringyl-to-guaiacyl (S/G) ratios and significant p-hydroxyphenyl (H) contents. The unique composition influences lignin reactivity and extraction efficiency. The focus has shifted toward innovations in green extraction technologies, approaches to tailor lignin properties for specific applications, and addressing economic and industrial challenges that hinder large-scale commercialization. Traditional extraction processes involve harsh chemicals and high energy inputs, leading to undesirable condensation and structural alterations. In contrast, green extraction technologies, including microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and nonthermal plasma (NTP), along with the use of green solvents such as deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and ionic liquids (ILs), offer more sustainable alternatives. These methods preserve native lignin structures, reduce the environmental impact, and increase the suitability of products for value-added applications. Future directions involve the integration of “lignin-first” biorefinery strategies, computational modeling for solvent screening, and the development of function-specific lignin. These approaches support lignin transformation into biomaterials. However, challenges related to scalability, economic viability, market acceptance, and regulatory compliance remain. Addressing these barriers requires holistic process optimization, stakeholder collaboration, policy support, and consumer education. Ultimately, green lignin extraction from nonwoody biomass is a pivotal advancement toward a circular bioeconomy.