(452e) Single-Atom Catalysts (SACs) and Bimetallic Nano-Catalysts for Biomass Conversion to Renewable Liquid Fuels

Catalysts hold significant importance within both the chemicals and energy sectors. The transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources has intensified the need for advancements in catalyst development. Nano-catalysts and single-atom catalysts (SACs) possess distinctive catalytic properties that facilitate the strategic creation of new catalysts characterized by heightened activity, selectivity, and stability. Moreover, they offer improved atom economy, further enhancing their appeal in catalysis research and applications.

Manufacturing single-atom catalysts (SACs) poses significant challenges, particularly when dealing with metals prone to agglomeration at elevated temperatures, such as copper and ruthenium. Recently, we successfully developed an affordable low-temperature plasma (LTP) device tailored for the production of nano-catalysts and SACs, including bimetallic nano-catalysts. This research included testing a bimetallic nano-catalyst, Ru-Cu/zeolite, and SACs, specifically the Ru-Cu/zeolite catalyst, for lignin conversion. Remarkably, we achieved high yields in biomass conversion, surpassing 85%, and obtained hydrocarbon fuels as a result.

The LTP technology revolutionizes catalyst manufacturing efficiency and performance by implementing several innovations. Firstly, it reduces the temperature and duration required for catalyst calcination and activation. Secondly, it mitigates metal agglomeration, ensuring a more homogeneous dispersion of bi/multi-metal particles. Thirdly, it strengthens the bonding of metals to the support, resulting in a more durable and extended catalyst lifespan.

In conclusion, we will introduce an environmentally promising technology currently under development - a Low-Temperature Plasma (LTP) tool tailored for the production of bimetallic nanocatalysts and single-atom catalysts (SACs). This innovation holds great potential for facilitating biomass conversion processes.

This project was supported by DOE SBIR Project Contract Number DE-SC0022796.