Decomposition characteristics of softwood lignophenol under hydrothermal conditions

► Hydrothermal decomposition of softwood lignophenol was studied from 300 to 400C. ► The half is converted to ether-soluble compounds at 300C for 10 min. ► Prompt depolymerization is probably due to hydrolysis of aryl ether linkages. ► Monophenol yields are low because of inefficient pyrolysis of 1,1-bis aryl structures.