Pristine Lignin: A Sustainable Material for Electrochemical Energy Storage

Abstract

Lignin, an abundant and renewable aromatic biopolymer, has emerged as a promising sustainable material for next-generation energy storage and conversion technologies. Rich in redox-active phenolic and quinone groups, pristine lignin can be directly utilized, without energy-intensive carbonization, as a redox-active component in batteries and supercapacitors. Beyond electrodes, lignin has shown potential in electrolytes, redox flow batteries, and fuel cells, owing to its redox versatility and chemical tunability. Recent advances in composite design and hybridization with conductive materials have significantly enhanced its electrochemical performance, stability, and processability. Life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis further confirm the environmental and economic viability of lignin-based systems, highlighting substantial reductions in carbon footprint and production costs compared with fossil-derived alternatives. This review underscores the role of pristine lignin as a low-impact, scalable material for sustainable energy technologies, supporting the transition to a circular, carbon-neutral future.

Keywords

energy storage / lignin / organic electrode / pristine / sustainable

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