Thermoplastic polymers lignin-based thermoplastics

Li, Y., and Sarkanen, S., 2001, Kraft lignin-based thermoplastic polymer blends. In 11th International Symposium on Wood and Pulping Chemistry ATIP, Paris, Vol. I, pp. 75-78. 

Two papers point to the use of renewables in the production of interesting polymeric materials based on renewables. The contribution from Kelley describes a model compound study on the reactivity of pyrolysis oils, and how this information can be used in the formulation of new renewables based adhesives. Glasser describes the use of steam explosion technology to facilitate the simultaneous production of lignin and cellulose esters, useful in the production of thermoplastic structural polymers from wood. 

The utilization of TPS for the production of biodegradable plastics has increased and has been the object of several studies in the last decade. However, TPS has two main drawbacks namely its water affinity and its poor mechanical properties. To overcome these problems, the addition of other materials to TPS is necessary. In order to increase its water resistance, TPS has been blended with synthetic polymers and modified by cross-linking agents such as Ca and Zr salts. Substances such as waxes and lignin have also been tested to decrease the water uptake of starch-based materials. TPS s mechanical properties have usually been improved by addition of synthetic polymers, such as ethylene-acryhc acid and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymers. Another approach requires the use of natural fibers and mineral fillers. The inclusion of reinforcing fillers such as fibers could, however, enhance the degradation of thermoplastic starch because of the increase in the melt viscosity [79-81]. 

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