Depolymerization and hydrodeoxygenation of lignin to aromatic hydrocarbons with a Ru catalyst on a variety of Nb-based supports

Abstract

Efficient conversion of lignin to aromatic hydrocarbons via depolymerization and subsequent hydrodeoxygenation is important. Previously, we found that NbOx species played a key role in the activation and cleavage of C–O bonds in lignin and its model compounds. In this study, commercial niobic acid (HY-340), niobium phosphate (NbPO-CBMM) and lab-made layered niobium oxide (Nb2O5-Layer) were chosen as supports to study the effect of Brönsted and Lewis acids on the activation of C–O bonds in lignin conversion. A variety of Ru-loaded, Nb-based catalysts with different Ru particle sizes were prepared and applied to the conversion of p-cresol. The results show that all the Ru/Nb-based catalysts produce high mole yields of C7–C9 hydrocarbons (82.3–99.1%). What's more, Ru/Nb2O5-Layer affords the best mole yield of C7–C9 hydrocarbons and selectivity for C7–C9 aromatic hydrocarbons, of up to 99.1% and 88.0%, respectively. Moreover, it was found that Lewis acid sites play important roles in the depolymerization of enzymatic lignin into phenolic monomers and the cleavage of the C–O bond of phenols. Additionally, the electronic state and particle size of Ru are significant factors which influence the selectivity for aromatic hydrocarbons. A partial positive charge on the metallic Ru surface and a smaller Ru particle size are beneficial in improving the selectivity for aromatic hydrocarbons.