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. 2-phenoxy-1-phenylethanol, when applied in a mild two-step protocol, enables the cleavage of its C-O bond. 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.