The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for forming a lignin fraction from crude lignin which has been processed by means of a treatment step selected from enzymatic treatment, treatment with ionic liquid and their combinations. The method comprises treating the crude lignin (1) by a lignin liberation in at least one lignin liberation step (3), and separating a lignin fraction (6) in at least one separation step (5). Further, the invention relates to a lignin composition and its use.

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for forming a lignin fraction from crude lignin which has been processed by means of a treatment step selected from enzymatic treatment, treatment with ionic liquid and their combinations. The method comprises treating the crude lignin (1) by a lignin liberation in at least one lignin liberation step (3), and separating a lignin fraction (6) in at least one separation step (5). Further, the invention relates to a lignin composition and its use.

A method of making heterogeneous biocatalysts can include admixing a protein dissolved in an aqueous buffer with an imprinting compound dissolved in a water-immiscible imprinting solvent, wherein the imprinting compound is hydrophobic and enters and remains in the active site of the protein due to hydrophobic interaction. A water-miscible organic solvent can then be added to precipitate the protein having the imprinting compound in the active site as an amorphous solid. The precipitate can be separated and lyophilized and then washed to remove the imprinting compound, thereby providing a heterogeneous biocatalyst.

A method of making heterogeneous biocatalysts can include admixing a protein dissolved in an aqueous buffer with an imprinting compound dissolved in a water-immiscible imprinting solvent, wherein the imprinting compound is hydrophobic and enters and remains in the active site of the protein due to hydrophobic interaction. A water-miscible organic solvent can then be added to precipitate the protein having the imprinting compound in the active site as an amorphous solid. The precipitate can be separated and lyophilized and then washed to remove the imprinting compound, thereby providing a heterogeneous biocatalyst.