Total fractionation and analysis of organic components of industrial Eucalyptus globulus kraft black liquor

The organic components of black liquor from a Eucalyptus globulus bleached kraft pulp mill were separated by a comprehensive fractionation scheme. Six major fractions were isolated: lignin, ether soluble compounds (phenols, a romatic acids and neutrals) and water soluble compounds (carbohydrates and aliphatic carboxylic acids). The yield of products after fractionation, bas ed on estimated total dissolved organic matter, was about 90%, All the frac tions, except lignin, were characterized and the main components identified and quantified using gas chromatography and/or mass spectrometry technique s. More than 60 compounds have been identified. The advantages and limitati ons of the proposed fractionation scheme are discussed.