COMMERCIAL VIABILITY ANALYSIS OF LIGNIN BASED CARBON FIBRE

Lignin is a rich renewable source of aromatic compounds. As a potentialpetroleum feedstock replacement, lignin can reduce environmental impacts such ascarbon emission. Due to its complex chemical structure, lignin is currently underutilized.Exploiting lignin as a precursor for carbon fibre adds high economic value to lignin andencourages further development in lignin extraction technology. This report includes apreliminary cost analysis and identifies the key aspects of lignin-based carbon fibrecommercialization based on the TCOS framework. Technologically, melt spinning andshorter oxidation time give lignin carbon fibre a cost advantage and environmentalbenefit. Organizationally, lignin-based carbon fibre is patentable. The challenges areseeking financial gains and demonstrating the societal benefits. Commercially, lignincarbon fibre has a cost advantage and positive consumer perception. Successfullyaddressing TCOS uncertainties can potentially open the door for lignin as a carbon fibreprecursor, a $2.25 billion market in 2020.