Lignin, a complex aromatic polymer found in plant biomass, has long been an underutilized by-product of biofuel, biogas, and pulp industries. Unlocking its potential through valorization into high-value products is increasingly recognized as a key factor in improving the commercial viability of biorefineries.
At altM, our work focuses on developing products from every major component of lignocellulosic biomass.
- Cellulose is engineered into rheology modifiers for paints, coatings, and personal care formulations.
- Hemicellulose is converted into bioactive and barrier compounds.
- Lignin is transformed into functional biochemicals that unite performance and sustainability.
During this development, we created 19 distinct lignin variants, sourced from diverse biomass feedstocks and processed through different fractionation routes under our proprietary altMorph™ platform. Each lignin type exhibits unique structural and functional characteristics.
Among them, one variant displayed exceptional UV-absorbing and antioxidant properties, making it suitable for photoprotective applications. This discovery led to the development of altScreen™, a lignin-based SPF booster that complements existing UV filters.
altScreen™ delivers consistent SPF-enhancing performance at low concentrations, improving filter stability and reducing white cast in formulations. Developed through altM’s biorefinery expertise and proprietary processing, it is biodegradable, photostable, and environmentally safe.
In formulation studies, incorporation of just 2% altScreen™ increased the overall SPF by approximately 2.87-fold, highlighting its efficiency as a natural SPF booster.
This work demonstrates how high-quality research and process control can unlock the hidden potential of biomass components, creating new commercial opportunities while advancing sustainable innovation.
By applying advanced fractionation and integrated process design, biorefineries can move beyond fuels to produce functional biochemicals, bioactives, and high-performance additives while maintaining economic viability.
