Green Chemistry Letters and Reviews

Advances in Lignin and Cellulose Upgrading: Toward Sustainable Chemicals and Materials

The transition toward a sustainable chemical industry increasingly relies on the efficient use of renewable carbon resources, with lignocellulosic biomass standing out as an abundant and versatile feedstock. Composed primarily of lignin and cellulose, this complex matrix offers complementary opportunities: lignin as a rich source of bio-based aromatics, and cellulose as a platform for carbohydrate-derived chemicals and functional materials. Recent advances have moved beyond simple fractionation, focusing instead on integrated strategies that maximize the value of both components. Innovations in catalysis, solvent systems, and biorefinery design have enabled selective depolymerization, improved extraction methods, and the development of high-performance polymers, coatings, and specialty chemicals.

Replacing fossil-derived chemicals with renewable alternatives is a central challenge for modern society. Lignocellulosic biomass represents the most abundant non-food renewable carbon source available, yet it remains underutilized. Efficiently valorizing both fractions is essential to unlock its full potential and improve the economic viability of biorefineries. Advancing their combined use supports the transition to a circular bioeconomy by reducing waste, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing dependence on finite resources. Moreover, these innovations align with the principles of Green Chemistry, promoting safer processes, energy efficiency, and sustainable design. Ultimately, progress in this field can reshape the chemical industry toward more resilient and environmentally responsible production systems.

The sustainable transformation of lignocellulosic biomass into high-value chemicals and materials has emerged as a central objective in Green Chemistry. Within this context, lignin and cellulose, that have been long treated as unevenly valued fractions, are now increasingly approached through integrated valorization strategies that seek to maximize carbon efficiency and minimize waste. This topic encompasses recent advances in the selective depolymerization of lignin into well-defined aromatic platforms, as well as the conversion of cellulose into sugars, platform molecules, and functional derivatives. It also includes the production of bio-based fine chemicals, such as ingredients for food, cosmetics, and fragrances, highlighting the versatility of lignocellulosic feedstocks beyond bulk applications. Key subtopics include the development of benign solvent systems and catalytic processes, innovative fractionation techniques that preserve functionality, and tandem or cascade reactions enabling streamlined transformations. In addition, the design of bio-based polymers, coatings, and advanced materials from lignocellulosic building blocks is gaining momentum, alongside considerations of scalability and sustainability.

All manuscripts submitted to this Article Collection will undergo a full peer-review; the Guest Advisor for this Collection will not be handling the manuscripts (unless they are an Editorial Board member).

Please review the journal scope and author submission instructions prior to submitting a manuscript.

The deadline for submitting manuscripts is 19 February 2027.

Please contact Agnes Zhou at [email protected] with any queries and discount codes regarding this Article Collection.

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