LIBRA; LIgnin BioRefinery Approach for Phenolics Lignin Pyrolysis for the Production of Phenolic Compounds Bio-based industries, such as pulp- and paper and lignocellulosic biorefineries, produce lignin as a main by-product. Although lignin is a major renewable source of aromatic chemicals, it is mainly combusted for heat and power. ECN has developed LIBRA, a lignin biorefinery approach, which uses robust pyrolysis technology. Lignin from different sources, such as straw and wood is converted into biochar and a phenolic liquid that can be used for various value-added applications. Industrial application LIBRA enables the production of specific phenolic fractions that can be used as bio-resins, bio-bitumen, bio-fuel additives, aromatic chemicals, such as BTX, and high-value added aromatics (e.g. fragrances, molecules for the pharmaceutical and food industries). Advantages LIBRA offers a viable valorization route for lignin, the main by-product of lignocellulosic-based industries. LIBRA includes an efficient, cost-effective and scaleable pyrolysis technology that does not require severe conditions and expensive catalysts. LIBRA enables the processing of lignin from hardwoods, softwoods, straws and other types of herbaceous biomass. LIBRA can be deployed on a stand-alone basis, or as an integral part of a biorefinery. LIBRA converts at least 80% of the dry lignin into valuable materials. Description of the innovation What is it? Lignin from different sources is pyrolyzed (i.e. thermally depolymerized in the absence of molecular oxygen) in a dedicated bubbling fluidized bed reactor at 500°C and atmospheric pressure. This process produces a phenolic bio-oil and biochar, and is both robust and operates in continuous mode. So far, ECN has successfully provided proof – of – principle and proof – of – concept at a scale of ~ 1 kg/hr lignin intake. The technology is now ready for scale-up and a study of process economics has revealed that it is economically feasible. What does it mean for the customer? Lignin bio-oil and biochar are good raw material candidates for the manufacture of commercially-valuable products, such as biochemicals, biomaterials and biofuels. Lignin bio-oil is rich in phenolic compounds and can be used, without further processing, as a substitute for phenol in many applications, such as the manufacture of particle board and plywood resins. What can ECN do for you? Working in collaboration with industry, ECN offers specialized expertise and its know-how in the field of the biobased economy to customers who wish to develop industrial projects in the biorefining sector. Capable of working within a variety of contractual frameworks, ECN can help customers to develop economically-feasible biorefinery concepts, using technologies such as LIBRA. Scientific leader Paul J. de Wild, PhD Research scientist Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) Other contact Jelle Blekxtoon, MSc Business developer Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) , Product yields from the continuous pyrolysis of straw-derived CIMV Biolignin™