Process Optimization for a Sustainable and Selective Conversion of Fumaric Acid into gamma-Butyrolactone Over Pd-Re/SiO2

Author(s)

Figueredo, Adolfo L. ^[1] ; Costa, Carolina S. ^[1] ; Gothe, Maite L. ^[2] ; Rossi, Liane M. ^[2] ; Bazito, Reinaldo C. ^[2] ; Vidinha, Pedro ^[2] ; Pereira, Camila G. ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Rio Grande do Norte, Dept Chem Engn, Nucleus Educ & Res Oil & Gas, Natal, RN - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Fundamental Chem, Inst Chem, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CATALYSIS LETTERS; v. 151, n. 6 NOV 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

Selective production of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) from the catalytic hydrogenation of fumaric acid is an interesting reaction in the realm of biomass valorization, since GBL can be considered a bio-derived platform molecule. From a green chemistry point of view, water would be the ideal solvent, although accomplishing good conversion and selectivity rates in aqueous media can be challenging for this hydrogenation reaction, even when a suitable catalyst is employed. Herein, this process was optimized through experimental design, using a Pd-Re/SiO2 catalyst and water as solvent. The conversion of fumaric acid was complete, and GBL was produced with 91% selectivity at the pressure and temperature conditions predicted by the empirical model (181 degrees C and 41 bar, repectively). The experimental design allowed for high selectivity to be obtained in aqueous media by providing better rationalization of the combined effect of the temperature and pressure variables. {[}GRAPHICS] . (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/14905-0 - Development of (bio)catalytic membranes for CO2 valorization
• Grantee: Pedro Miguel Vidinha Gomes
• Support Opportunities: Program for Research on Bioenergy (BIOEN) - Regular Program Grants
• FAPESP's process: 14/50279-4 - Brasil Research Centre for Gas Innovation
• Grantee: Julio Romano Meneghini
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program