DBU-catalyzed metal-free C–O bond cleavage of lignin model compounds under mild conditions

Abstract

Amidst oil scarcity and surging energy requirements, renewable lignocellulosic biomass stands out as a sustainable substitute. However, the complex interlinkages of lignin pose a barrier to its valorization. In a mild two-step protocol, 2-phenoxy-1-phenylethanol is first oxidized to the corresponding ketone, which then undergoes DBU-promoted C–O bond cleavage. Through the metal-free DBU-catalyzed method, acetophenones and phenols are obtained with high efficiency, which paves the way for the high-value utilization of lignin.