Production of functionalized polymeric blends of lignin extracts from plant biomass exploiting supercritical CO2 as an impregnation and in situ polymerization medium

• Grant number: 24/08370-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: March 20, 2026
• End date: March 19, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Chemical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Priscilla Carvalho Veggi
• Grantee: Priscilla Carvalho Veggi
• Host Investigator: Vincenzo Taresco
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Ambientais, Químicas e Farmacêuticas (ICAQF). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Diadema. Diadema , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: University of Nottingham, University Park, England

Abstract

Due to environmental concerns, alternative and renewable feedstocks from biomass have received significant attention as sustainable sources of functionalized and polymerizable monomers. Their applications range from biomedical and tissue engineering to food packaging, coatings, cosmetics, surfactants, and more. Many studies have explored the longevity and self-transformation qualities of polymers, as well as their ability to perform valuable functions. Kraft lignin, derived from lignocellulosic waste biomass, has been widely explored in recent years as a promising material due to its renewable, abundant, and low-cost nature. It is a complex macromolecule that presents biodegradability, antioxidant activity, thermal stability, and rigidity, making it a potential pioneer for several high-value-added products with economic importance. In this context, the use of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) as a reaction medium or temporary plasticizer for the synthesis and processing of polymers has been extensively studied. ScCO2 is a good swelling agent and a weak solvent for most polymers, making it an ideal medium forpolymer modification. This project proposes to add value to kraft lignin by leveraging agro-industrial waste and co-products and exploring the unique properties of scCO2 as a reactionmedium. The main objective is to impregnate bio-based and methyl methacrylate monomers into the lignin structure, followed by in situ polymerization within its matrix, producing functionalized blends with potential applications in fixation/antimicrobial coatings, controlled release hybrid systems, or natural matrices reinforced with comonomers from different sources. (AU)