Functionalization of microstructures for photo-thermal production of γ-valerolactone

Abstract

The transition to cleaner energy sources is fundamental for mitigating the effects of climate change. One promising example is lignocellulosic biomass, a renewable and sustainable energy source that serves as a precursor to various compounds, including γ-valerolactone (GVL). GVL can be utilized as a biofuel or biopolymer. This project evaluates the potential use of SrFe12O19/Ni-P and graphite/Ni-P as catalysts for the photo-thermocatalytic and cost-effective production of GVL from levulinic acid, using a laser light as a source of energy. The goal is to scale up this process for future industrial applications. The catalysts were functionalized via a Ni-P electroless deposition process. The impact of temperature, reaction time, and electroless deposition coating time on catalyst efficiency was analysed. For the effective catalysts, different coverages thicknesses were tested. Optimal experimental conditions for reactor experiments with a laser dispositive were previously established by conducting autoclave tests in a conventional oven. Autoclave tests results evidenced that the SrFe12O19/Ni-P material did not exhibit catalytic properties for the production of γ-valerolactone. In contrast, graphite/Ni-P catalysts achieved nearly 100% conversion, with an optimum minimum reaction temperature of 120 ºC. To evaluate the potential of the graphite/Ni-P catalyst as a photo-thermal catalysts for γ-valerolactone production, experiments were conducted using the laser apparatus under the aforementioned conditions. The results showed that the graphite/Ni-P catalyst with a 10-minute deposition time exhibited higher conversion rates at lower reaction times and demonstrated greater durability and stability throughout the reusability cycles. Consequently, the graphite/Ni-P catalyst with a 10-minute deposition time was identifies as a suitable catalyst for GVL production.