New Lignin Separation Method from Ammonia Solutions

Technology Marketing SummaryA scientist at the Savannah River National Laboratory has developed a new method to separate lignin from ammonia solutions. Bio-ethanol plants typically use ammonia to separate lignin from the cellulosic fibers for a more efficient operation. Lignin itself is a byproduct with a variety of potential markets. The new method provides an efficient means of separating lignin from the ammonia to provide a product free of impurities. DescriptionBiorefineries that convert cellulosic materials to ethanol require the separation of lignin from the feedstock. The use of ammonia to separate lignin results in a by product where existing methods cannot effectively yield a pure lignin material. Existing methods typically generate an undesirable colloidal suspension that results in inefficient yields. The new method, accomplished by evaporation and pH adjustment, results in lignin that can be effectively filtered and dried free of impurities.

Biorefineries receive massive amounts of lignin from the cellulosic fibers to be processed. Lignin is an amorphous polymer that can be used as a fuel source as well as a component in the manufacture of complex polymers. The challenge has been to find a way to effectively separate lignin from ammonia free of impurities. The new method has been tested using switchgrass with other cellulosic materials currently being studied. Benefits

• high yields
• free of impurities
• viable source of fuel
• available for complex polymers
• patent pending

Applications and IndustriesPossible applications would be ethanol production, biomass industry, alternative fuels Technology Status

Technology ID	Development Stage	Availability	Published	Last Updated
SRNL-L9100-2010-00236	Development	Available	09/28/2010	09/28/2010