The catalytic conversion of biomass to value added organic compounds is an area of increasing interest. The plant matter known as lignin is a 3-dimensional biopolymer and key structural component in plants. Although currently of little utility, lignin offers a potential feedstock for bio-based fuels and value added chemicals. This work details the use of a bimetallic Pd/C and Zn catalyst system for the selective production of 2,6-dimethoxy-4-propylphenol and 2-methoxy-4-propylphenol from lignin in untreated biomass in yields of up to 50%. Through use of synthetic lignin monomers, dimers, and polymers a mechanism for the selective cleavage of β-O-4 ether linkages with the Pd/C and Zn catalyst has been proposed. These reactions were performed in a Parr reactor at moderate temperatures and hydrogen pressures, using methanol as a solvent.

Selective hydrodeoxygenation of lignin

249th National Meeting (2015)

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