| abstract |
The present invention relates to a process for preparing one or more low molecular weight aromatic lignin-derived compounds. The method preferably comprises providing a lignocellulosic material, pulping the lignocellulosic material, separating the pulp to provide a substantially pulp-free process stream comprising the modified lignin-derived component Decomposing step of isolating and modifying the modified lignin-derived component (cracking and oxidation) or reduction under the influence of a catalyst or electrooxidation, and treating the obtained product with an isolation step to provide a low molecular weight aromatic lignin- . Such compounds may be further modified. By cyclization. The methods of the present invention preferably include further oxidation of the compound to a redox active compound. The invention also relates to compounds obtainable by the process of the invention and to an assembly for carrying out the process of the invention. The present invention also relates to a method of providing said assembly to a conventional pulp and / or paper making plant. |