Evaluation of nickel-containing zeolites in the catalytic transformation of glucose in an aqueous medium

The transformations of carbohydrates into the platform substances such as furfural, hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), lactic acid, etc. are actual environment-friendly processes. Herein, glucose transformation in an aqueous medium (10 wt.%) at 160 degrees C over synthesized nickel modified zeolites Y, M and ZSM-5 has been studied. The catalysts have been characterized by using FTIR spectroscopy, pyridine adsorption with IR-spectroscopic control, ammonia TPD, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption, and TEM. Utilizing HPLC, GC and C-13 NMR the reaction products were identified. The 5-HMF molar yields over 5NiHY, 5NiHZSM-5, and 5NiHM were 8.5, 14, and 16%, respectively. Glucose conversion was practically quantitative. To investigate deactivated samples, FTIR and DTA/TG techniques have been used. The 5NiHM and 5NiHZSM-5 catalysts have showed a twice-lower weight of deposits (10 wt.%) than 5NiHY with the biggest total acidity. Bifunctional Lewis/Bronsted acid zeolite catalysts with Lewis acidity predominance demonstrate better performance in glucose transformation. The balance between acidity of the catalyst and textural properties is stated to play a key role in the transformation of glucose into 5-HMF. Nickel-containing zeolite ZSM-5 and M can be considered as promising catalysts for glucose conversion. Perspective trends in related research are provided.

Automated summary

The process of transforming carbohydrates into platform substances using nickel modified zeolite catalysts has been studied, with 5NiHM and 5NiHZSM-5 showing superior performance in glucose conversion. The balance between catalyst acidity and textural properties plays a key role in this transformation process. Nickel-containing zeolite ZSM-5 and M are promising catalysts for glucose conversion, with potential trends in related research discussed.