Renewable Lignin-Based Xerogels with Self-Cleaning Properties and Superhydrophobicity

A novel dissocyanate-modified lignin xerogel is facilely prepared using renewable lignin as precursors via a sol–gel process and ambient pressure drying method. The xerogel possesses high performance in self-cleaning and superhydrophobicity with no need for further hydrophobic modification. Furthermore, the xerogel obtained can find potential applications in absorbents, coatings, and scaffolds.