Project Abstract

This project aims to develop a comprehensive strategy for the catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into valuable chemicals, which can contribute to the transition towards a more sustainable and circular bioeconomy. Lignocellulosic biomass, such as agricultural residues, forestry waste, and dedicated energy crops, represents a abundant and renewable source of carbon that can be leveraged to produce a wide range of platform chemicals, fuels, and materials. However, the recalcitrant nature of lignocellulose and the complex composition of biomass pose significant challenges for efficient and cost-effective conversion processes. The primary objective of this project is to investigate and optimize catalytic strategies for the selective depolymerization and conversion of the main components of lignocellulosic biomass (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) into high-value chemicals. By employing a multi-pronged approach, the project aims to address the critical technological barriers that have hindered the large-scale deployment of lignocellulosic biorefineries. The project will focus on the development of advanced catalytic systems, including heterogeneous catalysts, enzyme-based catalysts, and hybrid catalytic approaches, to facilitate the selective fragmentation of lignocellulosic polymers and the subsequent conversion of the resulting monomeric and oligomeric compounds into platform chemicals, such as glucose, xylose, furfural, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and aromatic compounds. The catalytic processes will be designed to minimize the formation of undesirable byproducts, maximize product yields, and achieve high levels of selectivity and efficiency. In addition to the catalytic conversion strategies, the project will also explore the integration of upstream biomass pretreatment and fractionation techniques to enhance the accessibility and reactivity of the lignocellulosic components. This will involve the development of innovative pretreatment methods, such as organosolv, ionic liquid-based, or hydrothermal approaches, to disrupt the recalcitrant lignocellulosic structure and facilitate the subsequent catalytic transformations. The project will utilize a combination of experimental work, computational modeling, and techno-economic analysis to optimize the catalytic conversion processes and assess their feasibility for large-scale implementation. The experimental work will involve extensive catalyst screening, reaction kinetics studies, and process optimization to identify the most promising catalytic systems and operating conditions. Computational modeling will be employed to gain deeper insights into the reaction mechanisms, catalyst-substrate interactions, and process optimization, while techno-economic analysis will help evaluate the economic viability and scalability of the developed technologies. By successfully addressing the technical and economic challenges associated with the catalytic conversion of lignocellulosic biomass, this project has the potential to contribute significantly to the development of sustainable and efficient biorefinery processes. The valorization of abundant lignocellulosic feedstocks into value-added chemicals can diversify the product portfolio of biorefineries, improve their economic competitiveness, and reduce the environmental impact of traditional petrochemical-based industries. The outcomes of this project can also have broader implications for the advancement of the bioeconomy and the transition towards a more circular and sustainable future.

Project Overview