Unassisted solar lignin valorisation using a compartmented photo-electro-biochemical cell

Lignin is a major component of lignocellulosic biomass. Although it is highly recalcitrant to break down, it is a very abundant natural source of valuable aromatic carbons. Thus, the effective valorisation of lignin is crucial for realising a sustainable biorefinery chain. Here, we report a compartmented photo-electro-biochemical system for unassisted, selective, and stable lignin valorisation, in which a TiO2 photocatalyst, an atomically dispersed Co-based electrocatalyst, and a biocatalyst (lignin peroxidase isozyme H8, horseradish peroxidase) are integrated, such that each system is separated using Nafion and cellulose membranes. This cell design enables lignin valorisation upon irradiation with sunlight without the need for any additional bias or sacrificial agent and allows the protection of the biocatalyst from enzymedamaging elements, such as reactive radicals, gas bubbles, and light. The photo-electrobiochemical system is able to catalyse lignin depolymerisation with a 98.7% selectivity and polymerisation with a 73.3% yield using coniferyl alcohol, a lignin monomer

Development of low cost tubular furnaces for Research & Development Laboratories

In order to contribute with the most diverse research and development laboratories in its experiments, this paper presents the development methods for the construction of electric furnaces able to operate at temperatures up to 1200oC, with high thermal inertia and low cost. Research and development laboratories in Latin America face many difficulties in maintaining their experiments, especially those related to the synthesis of materials. However, many labs do not have the philosophical tradition of building their own research equipment, depending on whether importing or buying expensive equipment. In this article, we demonstrate the possibility of developing furnaces with good thermal homogeneity using low cost materials found throughout Latin America. Finally, we describe the construction methods and the materials used in the construction of two different furnaces operating at temperatures up to 400oC and 1200oC, presenting very good thermal inertia and homogeneity. With an operational temperature up to 1200 oC, both furnaces have thermal inertia and homogeneity.</jats:p