Catalytic fractionation of Palm Kernel shell with Co and Cu over zeolite HY catalysts

Abstract

Lignocellulosic biomass has the potential to be transformed valuable chemicals. This study extracted lignin from palm kernel shell with liquid phased oxidative fractionation in the presence of Co and Cu loaded over Zeolite HY catalysts. The oxidative fractionation was conducted at temperatures ranging from 140 °C to 180 °C, with various reaction times of 2–4 h. The GCMS analysis identified various products from the oxidative conversion including phenol derivatives (Butylated hydroxytoluene, 1,2-Benzenediol, etc.), phenolic aldehydes (Vanillin, Syringaldehyde, p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, etc.), and carboxylic acids (p-hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid etc.). At a reaction temperature of 180 °C with a 2 h reaction time, Co/Zeolite HY catalyst yielded 9.81% and Cu/Zeolite HY catalyst yielded 13.53% for phenol derivatives. The optimal yield of lignin-derived compounds was achieved with a 5 wt% catalyst loading in the context of biomass weight, particularly with a 10% metal loading of Co and Cu over Zeolite HY support. Additionally, the total yield of lignin-derived compounds obtained was 32.85% for 10%Co/Zeolite HY and 23.89% for 10%Cu/Zeolite HY, catalysts respectively. This research displays incorporating metals into zeolite support subsequently boosts their catalytic efficiency in lignin oxidation.