A Comparative Study on Reactions of Hydrogen Peroxide and Peracetic Acid with Lignin Chromophores. Part 1. The Reaction of Coniferaldehyde Model Compounds

Abstract

Summary The reactions of chromophoric model compounds of the coniferaldehyde type with hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid have been investigated in relation to lignin-retaining bleaching. Analysis of the main reaction products indicated that the side chain of coniferaldehyde could cleave either between the α, β double bond or between the β, γ bond. Comparison of possible reaction pathways to the formation of oxidation products from hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid suggested that peracetic acid is more effective than hydrogen peroxide. Advantages of peracetic acid over hydrogen peroxide include a faster rate of reaction, more efficient utilization of the bleaching agent and less likelihood of producing new chromophores.