Lignin modification by epoxidation

Abstract

The chemical modification of lignin through hydroxymethylation and epoxidation is a way to develop new application fields and improvement of lignin performances. In this paper the influence of reaction conditions was studied using different samples of unmodified and modified lignins from annual plants (Wheat straw and Sarkanda grass). The progress of reactions was monitored by evaluating the epoxy index. The resulting products were characterized by FTIR-spectra, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and thermogravimetry analysis. The products obtained were tested to be used in composite formulation for wood applications.