Lignin-based Micro- and Nano-entities: Functionalities and Applications

The field of lignin nanotechnology is burgeoning with potential, driven by the need for sustainable and biobased alternatives in various industrial applications. Lignin, a highly abundant polyphenolic and natural aromatic polymer, presents intriguing possibilities due to its bioactive properties and availability as a byproduct from pulping processes and biorefineries. Despite this, the utilization of lignin, particularly in high-performance applications, is hindered by challenges such as its chemical variability, dark color, and solubility issues. Innovative strategies to valorize lignin effectively and enhance its performance in end products are thus increasingly critical.

This Research Topic aims to explore the latest advancements in the field of lignin micro- and nano-entities. It focuses on emerging technologies, chemistry modifications, and the unique properties of lignin at the micro- and nano-scale that can address the current limitations. The goal is to highlight state-of-the-art knowledge and technological breakthroughs that can open new avenues for the application of lignin in diverse fields such as biomedicine, electronics, and personal care, transforming it into a valuable resource for high-performance materials.

To gather further insights into the capabilities and potential of lignin at the micro- and nano-scale, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Innovative methods for converting irregular-sized lignin particles into uniform nanoparticles using techniques such as nanoprecipitation and sonication.
• Studies on the functionalization of lignin at micro- and nanoscales, including particle formation and interactions with other compounds.
• Development of lignin-based hybrid micro- and nano-entities through encapsulation of active molecules or combination with other inorganic/organic materials.
• Investigations into the structure–property–performance relationships of lignin micro- and nano-entities by combining physical and chemical analyses.
• Applications of lignin in fields like cosmetics, coatings, biomedical applications, pharmacy, and electrochemistry, focusing on properties such as UV absorption, antioxidant capabilities, and drug delivery mechanisms.

Welcomed submissions include Original Research, Review, Mini Review, and Perspective articles.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• Mini Review
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review

Keywords: Lignin application, lignin nanoparticles, lignin-based micro-and nano-entities, mechanisms and interactions, lignin conversion

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.