Abstract: A thermoplastic acrylonitrile containing copolymer/lignin blend, e.g., thermoplastic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer/lignin blend, is provided, whereas the blend comprises (i) an amount of thermoplastic acrylonitrile containing copolymer (e.g., acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer); (ii) an amount of lignin; (iii) an amount of compatibilizing agent, such as phthalic anhydride, capable of imparting improved ductility and impact strength to the resultant blend and (iv) optionally an amount of at least one additive to impart specific properties including, but not limited, to resistance to ultraviolet radiation, resistance to oxidation, flame retardance, color, surface friction, or surface static charge accumulation. Methods of improving impact strength and/or ductility of, for example, a thermoplastic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer/lignin blend and articles made therefrom are also disclosed.

Abstract: A thermoplastic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer/lignin blend is provided, whereas the blend comprises (i) an amount of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer; (ii) an amount of lignin; and (iii) an amount of compatibilizing agent capable of imparting improved ductility and impact strength to the resultant blend. Methods of improving impact strength and ductility of a thermoplastic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer/lignin blend and articles made therefrom are also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for stabilizing lignin fibers, stabilized lignin fibers made by the process and carbonized fibers made from stabilized lignin fibers. The process includes heating lignin fibers to a temperature ranging from about 100° to about 220° C. while the fibers are in an atmosphere of air and HCl gas, generated as air is bubbled through concentrated hydrochloric acid for a period of time sufficient to stabilize the lignin fibers.