This study focuses on the structural characterisation techniques of lignin, which is the most abundant component in biomass and commonly produced as residual product in pulp mills industry. It is inexpensive, non-toxic and biodegradable. Four different lignins have been selected for this study including Alcell lignin, Kraft lignin and two milled wood lignins (MWL) derived from coniferous trees (softwoods) and deciduous trees (hardwood). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy analysis has been performed on all four types of lignin to identify the functional groups present in the lignin structure. The results have indicated that Alcell lignin consists of more desirable functional groups than Kraft lignin with higher phenolic, carbonyl and aromatic groups. Elemental analysis has been performed to examine the carbon and hydrogen content. The elemental analysis results indicates that MWL contain more hydrogen and carbon in comparison to other two commercial lignins. Heating values have been investigated in terms of higher heating value (HHV) and lower heating value (LHV). The lowest values of HHV and LHV have been reported for Kraft lignin due to its condensed structure. The differential thermogravimetry (DTG) analysis have been performed, which determines the maximum degradation temperature of the lignins. The start and maximum degradation temperature for each lignin help to set the pyrolysis temperature of the lignin for bio-oil production. Components that have been observed via Py-GC-MS analysis have indicated that degradation of bonds has led to the formation of three main structural units of lignin known as guaiacyl (G), syringyl (S) and p-hydroxyphenyl propane (p-H)–type. The results indicate that the Py-GC-MS analysis of MWL have higher aromatic components in comparison to the commercially available lignins
