Abstract: A composition including: a lignin sulfonic acid-based compound and a water-soluble compound; a lignin derivative that is a reaction product of the lignin sulfonic acid-based compound with an aromatic water-soluble compound; or the lignin sulfonic acid-based compound, the water-soluble compound, and the lignin derivative. The composition is a granular product or a liquid product.

Abstract: A solid product of a lignin-containing composition can have high dispersibility and heat stability; a solid product of a high performance lignin derivative can be used as a dispersing agent, useful at a construction site, with a concrete, and/or as a premix mixed with a hydraulic composition. A composition can serve as a dispersing agent capable of providing various substances to be dispersed with a thickening property and of enhancing the properties thereof, regardless of the use thereof such as for a hydraulic composition, dye, inorganic or organic pigment, coal-water slurry, agricultural chemical, ceramic, and/or oil drilling mud. The composition includes a lignin sulfonic acid-based compound and a water-soluble compound, or includes a lignin derivative that is a reaction product of a lignin sulfonic acid-based compound with an aromatic water-soluble compound and that satisfies prescribed conditions; and the composition may be a granular product or a liquid product.