Lignin Extraction and Characterization from Lavender Waste

Abstract

Today, the vast majority of plastic products are produced from petroleum-based chemicals. This has led to a great dependence on non-renewable energy sources in the production of many commonly used products. As the world population increases, the demand for such products and therefore oil also increases. However, fossil fuel resources are limited and will inevitably be depleted over time. Lignocellulosic biomasses, which are the most abundant natural carbon sources on earth, are the best alternative to fossil fuel sources. Lignocellulosic biomass is important for reducing and utilizing agroforestry residues for potential use in the production of biochemicals, biofuels, biomaterials, and other value-added products. “Green” biomass fractionation methodologies are being developed to reduce environmental impact. In our study, NaOH-water and KOH-water mixtures of 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10% and 15% were used to extract lignin from waste lavender fibers. Characterization analyses of the isolated lignin were performed using thermal and spectroscopic techniques. Tdehyde , Tg and Tm values were measured from the DSC curves of the extracts. Decomposition temperature values of 5%, 10% and 25% of the TGA curves were calculated. The presence of functional groups in lignin was emphasized from the FTIR spectra. Absorbance values were also measured by UV-VIS spectroscopy. Lignin obtained from lavender waste is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.

Keywords

• Lignin
• Extraction
• Characterization
• Biomass
• Lavender

References

1. Sen, H., Secilmis, C., Assani, A. & Sen, C. (2024). Lignin extraction and characterization from lavender waste. The Eurasia Proceedings of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (EPSTEM), 30, 28-38.