Strategies for obtaining value-added aromatic amines via lignin-first biorefinery approaches

Abstract

Is it possible to find an appropriate synergy between mild lignin depolymerization and atom-economic functionalization methods to achieve maximum synthetic efficiency for valuable bio-based amines and minimize the environmental burden associated with fossil-based routes? This opinion describes the most recent advances in the development of catalytic amination methodologies of lignin-derivable phenols typically afforded by lignin-first approaches, as well as emerging one-pot strategies for lignin deconstruction and subsequent production of high-value amines and derivatives. Moreover, promising synthetic pathways furnishing lignin-based N-heterocycles and their potential pharmaceutical application are further discussed.