Laccase from Pycnoporus cinnabarinus and phenolic compounds: Can the efficiency of an enzyme mediator for delignifying kenaf pulp be predicted?

► Monitoring oxidation-reduction potential of laccase-mediator systems. ► Formation of phenoxy radicals of different reactivity depending on mediator. ► Oxidative capacity of reaction medium increase in presence of kenaf pulp. ► 1-Hydroxybenzotriazole was the most efficient mediator for kenaf pulp biobleaching. ► Competitive reactions limit the use of natural mediators.