Chemical and thermal properties of lignins from oil palm biomass as a substitute for phenol in a phenol formaldehyde resin production

► Investigation on suitability of lignin from oil palm empty fruit bunch as a substitute of phenol in phenolic resin. ► Phenolic hydroxyl group content in kraft lignin is higher than in soda lignin. ► Kraft lignin showed promising potential as a partial substitute for phenol in phenolic resin.