Integrated design of an amination process of lignin oxygenated model compounds to synthesize cyclohexylamine: catalyst nanostructure engineering and catalytic conditional strategy

Abstract

Nowadays, the vigorous development of biomass catalytic valorization is gradually moving towards a promising era. Integrating nitrogen elements into biomass catalytic systems promises more possibilities for upgrading the roadmap of biomass feedstocks. The amination of lignin to cyclohexylamine and its derivatives is a potential alternative to the fossil-based pathway. One-pot catalytic amination of lignin model compounds is challenging and inefficient due to their structural characteristics. Concerning the amination pathway, cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol are important intermediates. Based on this, we discuss the structural preferences of catalysts in the selective hydrogenation process, as well as the amination process of cyclohexanone and cyclohexanol to guide the design of catalysts for the one-pot amination of lignin. Then, the catalytic amination systems are deeply analyzed based on their catalytic conditions. Finally, according to the current development status of lignin amination, the challenges and prospects are proposed for a better lignin valorization.