Microwave assisted catalytic hydrolysis of fibrous cellulose over framework catalysts: effects of acidity and pore structure

Catalytic hydrolysis of fibrous cellulose (CHFC) over framework catalysts (HY zeolites, SBA-15 zeolites and MCM-41) was studied under the microwave (MW) irradiation (MW density of 5 kW/L) at 200 degrees C. Results showed that CHFC processes were enhanced by the mesoporous catalysts (cellulose conversion of similar to 40%, m(catalyst)/m(cellulose) = 1/1) which is 225% higher than the conversion of catalyst-free system. Pore size and structure of the materials play a dominant role on the catalytic hydrolysis of polymer products and acidity plays a secondary role which will further decompose the secondary products, e.g. decomposing glucose and xylose into 5-HMF, furfural and low molecular acids. The catalyst kept high activity after used three times. The MW assisted CHFC mechanism is accounting for the first step decomposition of cellulose over MW system and then further transformation of short-chain cellulose molecules in the mesopores of the catalysts.

Automated summary

Catalytic hydrolysis of fibrous cellulose (CHFC) over framework catalysts was studied under microwave irradiation, showing a significant enhancement of the process with mesoporous catalysts. The pore size and structure of the catalysts have a dominant role in the catalytic hydrolysis of polymer products, while acidity plays a secondary role in further decomposing secondary products.