A review on catalytic conversion of lignin into high-value chemicals over Ni-based catalysts

The exploration on effective pathways for catalytic conversion of lignin (which is the most abundant and renewable natural bio-aromatic resource) into high-value chemicals (e.g., aromatic hydrocarbons and phenols) has attracted wide interests both in industrial and in scientific fields. By unleashing the potential of lignin to replace the utilization of fossil-derived resource for producing high-value chemicals, it can extremely improve lignin valorization and relieve the energy shortage caused by excessive consumption of traditional fossil-derived resource. However, achieving efficient lignin conversion has still been a challenge due to its structural complexity and stability. Ni-based catalysts consisting of active metal Ni and various functional supports have been broadly researched due to their inherent superiority in cost and outstanding performance in catalytic activity. Therefore, this review is dedicated to summarizing the recent progress of catalytic conversion of lignin (or lignin-derived model compounds) over Ni-based catalysts, including monometallic and bimetallic supported catalysts. Graphical abstract