by Scientists at Aalto University in Finland have developed a method to transform lignin, a wood-based waste product, into nanoparticles that can create a transparent coating with anti-fog properties. Lignin is an organic substance found in wood that is currently underutilized, with about 98% of it being used for combustion heating or power generation. However, lignin has the potential to be a renewable resource that can replace fossil-based materials. The researchers’ discovery paves the way for lignin to be used in various applications, such as on glasses and vehicle windows.
The researchers focused on reducing the size of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) to overcome their opacity issue. Smaller particles are less cloudy and scatter light in a more uniform manner, making them ideal for optical applications, particularly those that require anti-fog properties. The team chemically modified the lignin using acetylation, a reaction that introduces an acetyl functional group to the compound. The process yielded ultra-small LNPs at high concentrations, which exhibited unexpected properties.
By controlling the thickness and appearance of the coatings, the researchers were able to achieve transparent sub-monolayers to multilayered films. This allowed them to control the color and absorbance of light at different wavelengths. The ultrathin transparent coatings reduced light scattering caused by water droplets, making them suitable as anti-fogging coatings for transparent surfaces. Additionally, applying thicker layers and using multilayer films allowed for the creation of bright yellow, blue, and purple hues.
The acetylation reaction was quick and easy, allowing for the potential scalability to industrial levels. This is a significant advantage considering that lignin is a carbon sink, meaning it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Therefore, the use of lignin-based products can not only be commercially valuable but also contribute to reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Monika Österberg, one of the study’s corresponding authors, highlights the importance of high-value applications like this, which can drive lignin valorization and move away from using lignin solely as a fuel. The researchers’ findings have the potential to contribute to the circular economy and mitigate climate change by harnessing the potential of lignin as a sustainable and versatile material.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
