FAQs
What is lignin ?
Lignin is the most abundant natural polymer on earth. all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
What do I need to know about lignin packaging ?
Lignin packaging could make the difference in being profitable or unprofitable.
Lignin is typically shipped in bulk bags, sometimes referred to as “Super Sacks”. There are many types, with the most common being Type A, Type B, and Type C. Unlike Type “A” bags, the “B” and “C” bags have characteristics which prevent sparks and possible explosions. Bulk bags typically come “coated” or “uncoated”, with the coated bags having the lowest porosity. It’s not uncommon the see moisture loss from the faces of the uncoated bags. We can’t overemphasize the importance of selecting the right bags for your lignin, and carefully doing a “cost vs benefit” study. It’s also important that different countries have requirements for the type bags used for lignin. Do your homework !!!
One should ALWAYS carefully consider the size bag required. A good rule of thumb is the larger the bag, the lower the packaging costs. The lowest cost size would be one huge bag inside a container or truck. Of course this isn’t practical for all customers. But as a general rule, when the bags get smaller the price of packaging and handling goes up, adding substantially to the delivered cost of lignin.
We’ll say it again “Do Your Homework !” The fact that you’re reading this section shows that you’re doing just that ! This is important !
Where can I buy kraft lignin ?
There are links to the various lignin manufacturers’ sites in the Manufacturers section. The lignin experts at Advanced Mill Solutions (AMS) are the best single point of contact for kraft lignin in North America. If AMS doesn’t have it, they can direct you to someone with what you’re looking for.
How is kraft lignin priced?
In almost all cases, priced lignin is sold on a delivered basis ( price + freight ). Normally the seller takes on the additional responsibility of managing the transportation. Shipments to Asia are typically CIF.
There isn’t a common standard for sales prices. The most common is $/dry pound. Others prefer kg or tons. Whenever discussing tons, always make sure to clarify the type of ton - metric or short.
Can anything be done about the smell?
Odor has been one of the greatest challenges for researchers using kraft lignin. The short answer is “no”. There has been some progress in reducing the smell, but not eliminating it. In some applications, where kraft lignin is used as an intermediate, the smell does go away. However, odor will be an issue for most drop-in applications.
Is kraft lignin sustainable ?
Yes it is !
Are all kraft lignins the same ?
Absolutely not. Lignin characteristics vary depending on the tree species, as well as the pulping process.
How long can lignin be stored ?
We are aware of kraft lignin being stored over two years without any change in properties.
Isn’t it cheaper to ship dried lignin vs lignin that may have 30-35 % moisture.
Not necessarily. Drying affects the density of lignin. As you dry lignin you move from shipping “bricks” to shipping “pillows”.