What are the Catalytic Transformations of Glycerol?
1. Glycerol Hydrogenolysis Glycerol hydrogenolysis involves the breakdown of glycerol to produce useful chemicals such as 1,2-propanediol and 1,3-propanediol. Catalysts commonly used for this reaction include supported metal catalysts like Cu, Ni, and Ru.
2. Glycerol Oxidation Glycerol oxidation can produce value-added products such as dihydroxyacetone, glyceric acid, and tartronic acid. Catalysts for this reaction often include precious metals like Au, Pt, and Pd supported on materials like carbon or metal oxides.
3. Glycerol Dehydration Dehydration of glycerol yields acrolein, which is a precursor for acrylic acid and other chemicals. Acidic catalysts such as zeolites, mixed metal oxides, and heteropoly acids are commonly employed for this transformation.
4. Glycerol Reforming Glycerol reforming is a process to generate hydrogen, a clean energy carrier. This process uses catalysts like Ni, Co, and noble metals under high-temperature steam or autothermal conditions.
