Enhancing lignin depolymerization via a dithionite-assisted organosolv fractionation of birch sawdust

Abstract

Sodium dithionite is utilized as a reducing agent in the organosolv fractionation of lignocellulose to concomitantly produce cellulosic pulp and promote the reductive conversion of lignin into phenolic monomers. Reactions with model compounds highlight the role of sodium dithionite with respect to the reductive cleavage of β-O-4 bonds in lignin and the consequent formation of phenolic monomers.