Catalytic conversion of GVL to biofuels using Cu and Pt catalysts over microwave-synthesized FAU zeolite

This work aims to develop the microwave-assisted synthesis route for FAU zeolite. The effect of aging and crystallization times, as well as the use of ultrasonication during the synthesis stages, was studied. A highly crystalline, an extended BET surface area (215.45 m(2)/g), and a hierarchical nanostructure of faujasite zeolite were obtained using a combined microwave-assisted synthesis with an ultrasonication treatment (MOFAU). The resulting zeolites were used as supports for Pt and Cu catalysts, using a novel polyol impregnation method was possible to achieve an adequate metal loading and homogeneous dispersion of the metal. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scattering and Transmission Electronic Microscopy (SEM and TEM), Temperature-Programed Reduction (TPR), Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and N-2 physisorption analyses were used to determine the physicochemical properties of the obtained materials. The prepared materials were used in the catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) of gamma-valerolactone (GVL) using formic acid (FA) as H-2 source. The synthesized catalysts presented catalytic activity under the described conditions and 2-MTHF was identified as an interest product observing the highest selectivity with the 3%Pt/MOFAU material.

Automated summary

This study successfully developed a microwave-assisted synthesis route for FAU zeolite, resulting in a highly crystalline zeolite with a hierarchical nanostructure. Pt and Cu catalysts were loaded onto the synthesized zeolite using a novel polyol impregnation method, achieving adequate metal loading and homogeneous dispersion. The materials were characterized using various techniques and used in the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of GVL, with the 3%Pt/MOFAU catalyst showing the highest selectivity for 2-MTHF.