Selective and Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation of Lignin in Model Compounds and Intact Biomass
Abstract
With persistent volatility in crude oil prices and an increased awareness of global climate change, the case for use of bio-renewable resources in production of liquid fuels and chemicals is compelling. A major obstacle in the efficient conversion of biomass to useful chemicals and fuels lies in the recalcitrant nature of lignocellulosic biomass and the lack of a selective process for the conversion of lignin to a useful product stream. We have studied a Pd/C and ZnII system for the catalytic depolymerization of a wide variety of wood lignin, in yields up to 54%, and selectively upgraded the resulting monolignols into 4-propylguaiacol and 4-propylsyringol. Herein we present a detailed study of the hydrodeoxygenation of lignin, including a mechanistic investigation into the synergistic Pd/C and ZnII system through use of both model lignin compounds and lignocellulosic biomass.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Abu-Omar, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Alternative Energy|Chemistry
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