Insights into the structure sensitivity of levulinic acid hydrogenation using size-controlled copper nanoparticle catalysts

This thesis presents new insights into the liquid-phase hydrogenation reactions employing cost-effective transition metal like copper (Cu), in contrast to precious metal catalysts and proves the influence of structure sensitivity in the conversion of important biomass-derived platform chemicals such as levulinic acid (LA) into valuable fuel additives like γ-valerolactone (GVL). A comprehensive study of numerous parameters like pressure, temperature, catalyst loading, different solvents was performed, and optimum reaction conditions were designed using response surface methodology (RSM).

The influence of metal nanoparticle (NPs) size was investigated to understand the effect of structure-sensitivity of Cu NPs on LA hydrogenation, controlling the size of Cu NPs using different synthesis techniques. Using mechanochemistry, which is an attractive alternative to traditional synthesis methods due to its environment-friendly and economically efficient nature, size-controlled Cu catalysts were designed and almost twice the turnover frequency (TOF) was achieved as compared to the traditional catalyst preparation technique method of wet-impregnation (Wet-Imp).<br>