Solvent-soluble lignin oligomers for UV protection in agrochemical sprays

Overview

Solvent-soluble lignin oligomers, derived from native biomass or pulping waste, provide an effective UV protection solution for agrochemical sprays. These lignins offer broad-spectrum UV absorption (280–420 nm) and are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing agricultural formulations. The inherent UV-absorbing properties of lignin prevent photodegradation of active ingredients, enhancing the overall efficacy and longevity of agrochemical products. Additionally, the sustainability and biocompatibility of lignin align with modern environmental and regulatory requirements.

Technical specifications

• Source and Solubility: Lignin oligomers are sourced from abundant biomass or pulping waste and undergo fractionation or modification to achieve oil solubility. This ensures compatibility with common agrochemical solvents and circumvents the need for particles or emulsifiers.
• Dual-action UV Defense: The aromatic structure of lignin provides inner-filter UV absorption, while its phenolic content offers radical scavenging properties, reversing initial photochemical events.
• Sustainability and Safety: As a byproduct of agriculture or forestry, lignin is biodegradable and available at scale, promoting sustainable practices.

Technology readiness level

The technology is at TRL 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory environment. Future steps include bench-scale UV-vis screening and photostability assays to further demonstrate efficacy, as well as prototyping to define formulation parameters for integration into agricultural sprays.