The case-dependent lignin role in lignocellulose nanofibers preparation and functional application-A review

Lignocellulose nanofibers (LCNFs) as a new material is attracting extensive attention. The pretreatment and mechanical fibrillation are the two main stages involved in the preparation of LCNFs, and lignin plays the important role of these two stages. This review discussed the interaction between lignin and chemicals in the pretreatment stage, and discovered the general law of the effect of lignin in the mechanical fibrillation stage. Lignin exhibits both promotion and inhibition effects on mechanical fibrillation, and the mutual competition between the two effects ultimately affects the energy consumption, morphology and yield of LCNFs. Furthermore, the recent research progress related to the contributions of lignin on the functional application of LCNFs was summarized, aiming to provide profound guidance for the preparation and application of LCNFs.