Lignin is the only large-volume renewable source of aromatic chemicals. Efficient depolymerisation and deoxygenation of lignin while retaining the aromatic functionality are attractive but extremely challenging. In our laboratory, the selective production of arenes via direct hydrodeoxygenation of organosolv lignin over a porous Ru/Nb2O5 catalyst was realized for the first time, which enabled the complete removal of the oxygen content from lignin. The conversion of birch lignin to monomer C7~C9 hydrocarbons is nearly quantitative based upon its monomer content, with a total mass yield of 35.5 wt% and an exceptional arene selectivity of 71 wt%. Inelastic neutron scattering and DFT calculations confirm that the Nb2O5 support is catalytically unique comparing to other traditional oxide supports, and the disassociation energy of Caromatic-OH bonds in phenolics is significantly reduced upon adsorption on Nb2O5, resulting in its distinct selectivity to arenes. This new one-pot process provides a promising approach for improved lignin valorisation with general applicability.

Selective production of arenes via direct lignin upgrading over a niobium-based catalyst

254th National Meeting (2017)

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