Levulinic acid as a green solvent for the production of lignin-based delivery systems of agrochemicals

The integration of lignin as a bio-based carrier for active ingredients in agriculture represents a forward-looking approach in the development of environmentally friendly and smart delivery systems. This strategy leverages lignin's amphiphilic properties, enabling molecular self-assembly [1] through an anti-solvent method [2]. An innovative and sustainable process involves the valorization of agricultural food waste to design novel lignin-based carriers for fertilizers and pesticides. Within this framework, levulinic acid, a key chemical derived from the catalytic hydrolysis of cellulose [3], can be employed for lignin solubilization. Notably, both cellulose and lignin are derived from the same lignocellulosic biomass, underscoring the circularity of this approach. This method facilitates the encapsulation of hydrophobic active ingredients into lignin-based nano- or microspheres, replacing conventional organic solvents such as tetrahydrofuran or acetone with levulinic acid. Moreover, it offers a greener alternative for the development of delivery systems, reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.