LIGNOFUN

LIGNin-based arOmatic FUNnelling to high-value biochemicals and biomaterials production

Project details

Type of project
Innovation Action - Demonstration
Project focus
Bio-based chemicals
Feedstock origin
Forestry waste
Feedstock type
Pulp & paper industry (black liquor & sidestreams)
Project period
1 June 2025 - 31 May 2029
Status
Upcoming
CBE JU Contribution
€ 7 496 382,42
Call identifier
HORIZON-JU-CBE-2024

Summary

Fossil-based chemicals contribute to pollution, GHG emissions, and resource depletion. As a natural plant material and by-product of the paper industry, lignin offers a sustainable alternative to these chemicals. However, its complex structure often results in it being burned for energy rather than being used for valuable products. Improving lignin processing can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and foster a greener economy.

LIGNOFUN is an innovative project developing new technologies to convert lignin into valuable bio-based chemicals. By scaling up two advanced processes—METNIN™ and OHRIGINS™—, the project transforms waste from paper mills into ingredients for foams, nylon 66, adhesives, coatings, composites, wood panels, cosmetics, personal care items, and rubber products.  

The project is driving the introduction of bio-based materials to the market, demonstrating that sustainable alternatives not only match the performance of fossil-based chemicals, but that they are also more beneficial for the environment. 

  • Demonstrate a sustainable, cost-effective approach for converting lignin into high value biochemicals and biomaterials by optimising two proprietary depolymerization technologies.
  • Optimise lignin processing technologies to efficiently convert kraft lignin from paper mills into high-value aromatic products with high-conversion efficiency.
  • Develop and test adhesives, resins, and polymers using lignin-derived products, ensuring they meet industry standards for quality, performance, and regulatory compliance.
  • Produce highly pure antioxidant ingredients from lignin for use in personal care, cosmetics, and rubber industries, ensuring proven stability and safety.
  • Convert lignin waste streams into bio-based nylon 66 through a sustainable and efficient process.
  • Assess the economic, environmental, and social viability of lignin-based products to ensure their sustainability and competitiveness.
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, assess circularity, and optimise the business model for lignin-derived products.
  • Involve industry stakeholders in co-developing products, while increasing awareness and providing recommendations to drive market uptake of lignin-based solutions.
  • Establish a roadmap for the transition to sustainable lignin-based solutions by 2050. 

  • Boost the sustainability, strategic autonomy, and competitiveness of the EU chemical industry, reducing dependence on fossil feedstocks in other sectors.
  • Provide a broader range of bio-based chemicals that meet market and technical performance requirements, facilitating market uptake.
  • Open opportunities for new industries and job creation within the bioeconomy sector.
  • Reduce potentially up to 84 million tonnes of CO2 per year in the EU by replacing fossil-based chemicals with lignin-based aromatic intermediates.
  • Ensure the sustainable and circular use of natural resources throughout the project.
  • Increase environmental awareness by promoting sustainable practices.
  • Ensure synergy and cooperation with existing and future EU projects focused on sustainability and bio-based solutions.

Consortium map

Project coordination

  • RISE PROCESSUM AB Ornskoldsvik, Sweden

Consortium

  • VLAAMSE INSTELLING VOOR TECHNOLOGISCH ONDERZOEK N.V. Mol, Belgium
  • INSTITUT TECHNOLOGIQUE FCBA (FORETCELLULOSE BOIS-CONSTRUCTION AMEUBLEMENT) Champs Sur Marne, France
  • FUNDACION AITIIP Zaragoza, Spain
  • METGEN OY Kaarina, Finland
  • BUDAPESTI MUSZAKI ES GAZDASAGTUDOMANYI EGYETEM Budapest, Hungary
  • RISE RESEARCH INSTITUTES OF SWEDEN AB Boras, Sweden
  • CENTRO TECNOLOGICO RIOJANO SA Pradejon, Spain
  • IDENER RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AGRUPACION DE INTERES ECONOMICO LA RINCONADA SEVILLA, Spain
  • JUNO COMPOSITES LTD Emyvale, Ireland
  • HELIA-D KERESKEDELMI KORLATOLT FELELOSSEGU TARSASAG BUDAPEST, Hungary
  • FUNDACION CENER Sarriguren, Spain
  • CLUSTER INDUSTRIELLE BIOTECHNOLOGIE EV Dusseldorf, Germany
  • CELIGNIS LIMITED Limerick, Ireland
  • NOVELYEAST Blanden, Belgium
  • MOSES PRODUCTOS SL Zaragoza, Spain
  • KASTAMONU ENTEGRE AGAC SANAYI VE TICARET ANONIM SIRKETI Istanbul, Turkey
  • RISE LIGNODEMO AB Stockholm, Sweden