CELL 6 |
| The synthesis of colorants for fibers and plastics is an environmentally challenging process, involving large amounts of toxic solvents, intermediates and effluents. Oxidoreductase enzymes, such as laccases, have been found to be capable of coupling small organic molecules to form colored compounds. Enzymatic synthesis thus presents an alternative, environmentally benign route to the traditional process. In this research, aromatic alcohols, esters and carboxylic acids were reacted with free or fiber-bound lignin in the presence of laccase to form dyes and pigments. Their application potential for coloration of natural and synthetic biodegradable polymeric materials has been studied. |
|
Industrial Products from Renewable Materials: Molecular to Macroscopic Scale
8:00 AM-11:50 AM, Sunday, 10 September 2006 Palace -- Pacific Heights, Oral
Division of Cellulose & Renewable Materials |