Another way to make lignin more accessible for different applications is not to convert it completely into low-molar-mass products, but instead to homogenize it by reducing the polydispersity and average molar mass. In addition, it is advantageous to introduce new functionalities such as hydroxyl or carbonyl groups or to convert existing functionalities when splitting the high molar mass fractions into oligomers. This allows for more targeted use or better performance in simpler applications as an additive, surfactant or filler for polymers to save on conventional chemicals .