A Novel Biorefinery Approach: Biocompatible DES-Assisted One-Pot Mechanochemical Conversion of Biomass

To establish competitive biorefineries aligned with global climate goals, it is essential to reduce dependence on petroleum-derived solvents and overcome the efficiency limitations posed by lignocellulosic recalcitrance. This study presents a solution with a sustainable and efficient biomass conversion strategy, integrating a green, biocompatible deep eutectic solvent (DES) with mechanical ball-milling pretreatment under ambient conditions. The result is a rapid, low-temperature process that fully harnesses the potential of lignocellulosic feedstocks in a high-solid-loading, one-pot approach.

This integrated method achieved glucose yields of up to 83% from corn stover at 25 wt% solid loading, surpassing conventional pretreatment methods in both efficiency and process simplicity. Notably, sugar yields remained high without the need for external heat, pressure, or intermediate washing steps, demonstrating excellent process scalability. In addition, mild reaction conditions enabled the near-complete preservation of native lignin structures. Structural analyses of residual lignins confirmed the retention of key interunit aryl-ether linkages and minimal lignin depolymerization, enhancing the downstream valorization potential of lignin as a high-value coproduct.

Together, these findings demonstrate the feasibility of a synergistic mechanochemical approach to unlock fermentable sugars and valorize lignin from lignocellulosic biomass. By reducing dependence on traditional, chemically intensive biomass processing methods, this work aims to provide a compelling foundation for next-generation biorefinery development.