Direct conversion of cellulose into sorbitol catalyzed by a bifunctional catalyst

Area of Science:

• Biomass Valorization
• Catalysis
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Cellulose conversion to sorbitol is a key route for producing high-value chemicals from biomass.
• Developing efficient and selective catalysts is crucial for this process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare and evaluate a novel sulfonic acid-functionalized carbonized cassava dregs supported ruthenium bifunctional catalyst (Ru/CCD-SO3H).
• To investigate the direct conversion of cellulose into sorbitol using this catalyst in a neutral aqueous solution.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of Ru/CCD-SO3H catalyst from carbonized cassava dregs functionalized with sulfonic acid and supported ruthenium.
• Catalytic testing for the direct conversion of cellulose to sorbitol under specific temperature and time conditions.
• Analysis of catalyst properties, including acidic sites and metal hydrogenation sites, and their role in the reaction.

Main Results:

• A sorbitol yield of 63.8% was achieved at 180°C for 10 hours.
• The catalyst demonstrated a synergistic effect between sulfonic groups and ruthenium nanoparticles, enhancing sorbitol yield.
• The catalyst's acidic and metal hydrogenation sites were critical for the hydrolytic hydrogenation of cellulose.

Conclusions:

• The Ru/CCD-SO3H catalyst is effective for the direct conversion of cellulose to sorbitol.
• A strong synergistic effect between catalyst components enhances efficiency.
• While effective, the catalyst's performance decreased after five uses, indicating a need for further stability improvements.