The researchers studied how adding acid and a mix of water and ethylene glycol can help break down lignin and cellulose in plant materials like oil palm empty fruit bunches. They found that using these substances together can increase the amount of valuable lignin extracted, with main components like phenol, guaiacyl, and syringyl. The acidity level affected the yield of lignin monomers and the harsher conditions led to more lignin breakdown but less sugar from cellulose and hemicellulose. The study showed that ethylene glycol helps extract lignin, while acid in water helps break down both lignin and carbohydrates.