BuOK promoted C-C bond oxidative cleavage of β-O-4 and β-1 lignin models to benzoic acids at room temperature

Based on a simple system composed of a base and oxygen, an efficient and direct conversion scheme of β-O-4 and β-1 lignin model compounds was developed under mild conditions, and benzoic acid and phenol compounds were obtained. Benzoic acids and phenols were obtained through a t BuOK-O 2 system realizing the degradation of lignin model compounds through continuous oxidation. The process is carried out at room temperature without the participation of a metal catalyst.