Green synthesis, properties, and catalytic application of zeolite (P) in production of biofuels from bagasse

Abstract

This study reports the technical and economic feasibilities of converting sugar cane residue (bagasse) into biofuel by using novel zeolite (P) catalyst. Using silica gel, aluminum powder, and sodium hydroxide as a precursor material, zeolite (P) has been successfully fabricated by template free hydrothermal synthesis. The as-prepared catalyst is used for the conversion of sugarcane residue into valuable hydrocarbons by an autoclaving process. The effect of various parameters on catalytic and conventional (noncatalytic) pyrolysis was scrutinized and compared. It has been recognized that conventional pyrolysis (without catalyst) and catalytic pyrolysis (with Cat (I) and Cat (II)) produced 25.06%, 80.31%, and 55.26% of combustible liquid. The facial synthesis, high thermal stability, and economic and environmental feasibilities of the as-synthesized zeolite (P) makes it a promising catalyst for biofuel production from biomass.