LIGNOFUN: LIGNin-based arOmatic FUNnelling to high-value biochemicals and biomaterials production

The LIGNOFUN initiative transforms low-value, underutilized lignin from paper mills into sustainable, high-value chemicals. The project’s central mission is to replace the aromatic chemicals currently derived from fossil fuels, thereby tackling critical environmental challenges like greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion.

 

At its technological core, LIGNOFUN advances two key lignin depolymerization technologies, METNIN and OHRIGINS, to an industrially relevant scale (TRL 6-7). These processes efficiently break down the complex lignin structure into valuable streams rich in aromatic molecules. These streams then serve as building blocks for a diverse range of high-performance demonstration prototypes. The project validates their use in applications such as foams, nylon 66, adhesives, coatings, personal care products, and rubber goods, showcasing their potential for superior performance and economic viability.

 

To ensure the entire value chain is sustainable and feasible, LIGNOFUN conducts thorough impact assessments using analyses like TEA, S-LCA, and LCC. This process optimizes the technologies for economic viability, environmental benefits, and positive social impact.

 

This ambitious undertaking is driven by a robust consortium of 18 partners, including SMEs, a large company, research organizations, and a cluster. By uniting expertise from both industry and research and actively engaging end-users, LIGNOFUN fosters the industrial adoption of these new bio-based alternatives. Ultimately, the project empowers EU industries to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, driving innovation and competitiveness for a greener European future.

Our main tasks

• Baseline análisis
• Modelling and integration of the LIGNOFUN process
• Comprehensive REACH analysis of pre-selected substances and safety assessment

Partners

PROCESSUM | RISE | RISE LIGNODEMO | VITO | METGEN | CENER | JUNO COMPOSITES | NOVELYEAST | KASTAMONU ENTEGRE | CELIGNIS | CLUSTER INDUSTRIELLE BIOTECHNOLOGIE | IDENER.AI | BUDAPESTI MUSZAKI ES GAZDASAGTUDOMANYI EGYETEM | INSTITUT TECHNOLOGIQUE FCBA | MOSES PRODUCTOS | AITIIP TECHNOLOGY CENTER | HELIA-D WEBÁRUHÁZ

Start date – finish date

06 / 2025 - 05 / 2029