Current roles of lignin for the agroindustry: Applications, challenges, and opportunities

Int J Biol Macromol. 2023 Jun 15:240:124523. doi: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124523. Epub 2023 Apr 19.

Abstract

Lignin has the potential to be used as an additive, coating agent, fertilizer, plant growth stimulator, and packaging material in the agroindustry due to its functional aromatic structure. The quantitative measurement of functional groups is a significant element of the research for lignin structure since they directly impact their optical, dispersion, and chemical properties. These physical and chemical properties of lignin strongly depend on its type and source and its isolation procedure. Thus, lignin provides numerous opportunities for the circular economy in the agroindustry; however, studying and resolving the challenges associated with its separation, purification, and modification is required. This review discusses the most recent findings on lignin use in agroindustry and historical facts about lignin. The properties of lignin and its roles as coating agents, pesticide carriers, plant growth stimulators, and soil-improving agents have been summarized. The emerging challenges in the field of lignin-based agroindustry are considered, and potential future steps to overcome these challenges are discussed.

Keywords: Additive; Agroindustry; And packaging material; Coating agent; Fertilizer; Lignin; Plant growth stimulator; Production.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Fertilizers
  • Lignin* / chemistry
  • Pesticides*
  • Soil

Substances

  • Lignin
  • Soil
  • Pesticides
  • Fertilizers