Publication

Abstract : With increasing awareness and the need for sustainable materials, there is a need to increase the utilization of natural materials for various applications. In this context, lignin, a biomass derivative, is a promising candidate as a filler for polymer composites. Nanomaterials, especially nanosized biobased materials such as nanolignin and nanocellulose due to their inherent advantages have emerged as novel materials for various applications. Hence, this chapter discusses the structure and biomass pretreatment methods employed in the preparation of nanolignin or lignin nanoparticles (LNPs). The methods adopted for the synthesis of nanolignin are elaborated. A detailed discussion on the preparation, morphology, and properties of thermoplastic, thermoset, and elastomer composites based on nanolignin is presented. The current trends and future scope in application usage of nanolignin and polymer nanolignin composites are reviewed, with emphasis on antibacterial, reinforcement, anti-UV, food packaging, and green synthesis applications.