Renewable carbon nanofibers unlock path to sustainable phenol production from lignin.
In this project, scientists wanted to break down lignin into useful chemicals. They made a special catalyst called Ni/LCNF using tiny nickel (Ni) particles placed in lignin-based carbon nanofibers (LCNF) to make the catalyst more durable. By using this catalyst, they achieved a high yield of valuable compounds from lignin. The catalyst maintained its effectiveness through multiple uses without losing its ability to produce the desired chemicals. This innovative method helps prevent the nickel particles from clumping together and losing effectiveness, improving the overall efficiency of turning lignin into useful substances.