Abstract: The present invention is directed to the preparation of phthalic anhydride compounds and the intermediate phthalide compounds. In particular, the invention is directed to an improved bio-based route from furanic compounds to phthalic anhydride compounds by reacting furfuryl alcohol (i.e. 2-hydroxymethylfuran) or an analogue thereof having a nucleophilic atom on the 2-methyl, with a dienophile comprising an ?,?-unsaturated carbonyl comprising an ??-leaving group. The inventions further involved preparation of phthalic anhydride compounds, phthalic acid compounds and reduction products of the intermediate phthalide compounds.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the preparation of phthalic anhydride compounds and the intermediate phthalide compounds. In particular, the invention is directed to an improved bio-based route from furanic compounds to phthalic anhydride compounds by reacting furfuryl alcohol (i.e. 2-hydroxymethylfuran) or an analogue thereof having a nucleophilic atom on the 2-methyl, with a dienophile comprising an ?,?-unsaturated carbonyl comprising an ??-leaving group. The inventions further involved preparation of phthalic anhydride compounds, phthalic acid compounds and reduction products of the intermediate phthalide compounds.

Abstract: A method of processing a lignocellulosic feedstock includes heating the lignocellulosic feedstock in a solvent mixture comprising an acid and at least 80% by volume of n-butanol to produce a reaction mixture including a butylated lignin. A butylated lignin product wherein at least 85% of the ?-O-4 linkages include n-butyl ether groups can be prepared. Cellulose and butylated hemicellulose products can also be obtained.

Abstract: A method of depolymerizing a lignin includes oxidizing the lignin to provide an oxidized lignin wherein benzylic —OH of ?-O-4 linkages have been converted to carbonyl. The oxidized lignin is depolymerized with a metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, magnesium, aluminum and titanium or mixtures thereof, in the presence of an ammonium salt or carbon dioxide. Also described are methods for manufacturing phenolic products from lignin and a method for the cleavage of a ?-O-4 linkage in a substrate.

Abstract: A method of processing a lignocellulosic feedstock includes heating the lignocellulosic feedstock in a solvent mixture comprising an acid and at least 80% by volume of n-butanol to produce a reaction mixture including a butylated lignin. A butylated lignin product wherein at least 85% of the ?-O-4 linkages include n-butyl ether groups can be prepared. Cellulose and butylated hemicellulose products can also be obtained.

Abstract: A method of depolymerising a lignin includes oxidising the lignin to provide an oxidised lignin wherein benzylic —OH of ?-O-4 linkages have been converted to carbonyl. The oxidised lignin is depolymerised with a metal selected from the group consisting of zinc, magnesium, aluminium and titanium or mixtures thereof, in the presence of an ammonium salt or carbon dioxide. Also described are methods for manufacturing phenolic products from lignin and a method for the cleavage of a ?-O-4 linkage in a substrate.