Chemo-enzymatic reassembly of underused biomass fractions

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In response to pressing climate change, environmental and social concerns, the global economy is becoming increasingly bio-based. Lignocellulosic biomass from forest and agricultural residues represent the most abundant and underused bioresource on earth. So far, sustainable technologies developed to utilize these residues have largely focused on the deconstruction of biomass into sugars that can then be converted to fuels and chemicals. This project is distinguished by its focus on reconstruction and upgrading of underutilized lignocellulose fractions to thereby create bio-based polymers and materials of higher value that realize the inherent performance attributes of regionally sourced biomass. To achieve this goal, this project assembles complementary expertise in enzymatic and chemical catalyses to sustainably create bio-based resins, coatings, and adhesives for lightweight biocomposites. The chemo-enzymatic processes developed by the project are expected to expand Canada's role in global bioproduct markets, creating lasting knowledge-based economic opportunities for Canada's forest sector and rural communities.