EUBCE 2026 - Jonghwan CHOI - Synthesis of Bio-Based Schiff-Base Hydrogels Derived from Aminated Cellulose, Dialdehyde Xylan, and Aminated Lignin

Synthesis of Bio-Based Schiff-Base Hydrogels Derived from Aminated Cellulose, Dialdehyde Xylan, and Aminated Lignin

Short Introductive summary

Hydrogels, as three-dimensional polymeric networks with high water retention capacity, have gained significant attention in biomedical, environmental, and superabsorbent applications. In this work, a bio-based hydrogel system is developed from renewable lignocellulosic polymers—cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin—as a sustainable alternative to conventional synthetic hydrogels. Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was aminated to produce aminated cellulose (AC), while xylan was oxidized to dialdehyde xylan (DAX). The Schiff-base reaction between AC and DAX in aqueous media enables the formation of a crosslinked hydrogel through dynamic imine bonds. Additionally, aminated lignin(AL) was incorporated to introduce phenolic structures that are expected to enhance the thermal and mechanical stability of the hydrogel. The resulting materials are expected to show improved water absorption, morphological characteristics, and structural integrity. This study aims to establish a sustainable strategy for synthesizing bio-derived hydrogels with tunable properties, contributing to the development of green materials applicable to future biomedical and environmental fields.

J. Choi, Seoul National University, REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Y. Cho, Seoul National University, REPUBLIC OF KOREA
J. Shin, Seoul National University, REPUBLIC OF KOREA
G. Han, Seoul National University, REPUBLIC OF KOREA
J. Choi, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Ulsan, REPUBLIC OF KOREA
I. Choi, Seoul National University, REPUBLIC OF KOREA