(46b) Catalytic Conversion of Sugars and Glycerin to Biochemicals

Sugars from fermentation of cellulosic materials and crude glycerin from fast growing biodiesel industry are important sources of biochemicals in an effort to substitute petroleum products. Various processes such as oxidation, hydrogenation, dehydration, hydrogenolysis can be utilized in transforming these raw materials of renewable sources into high-valued chemicals. Highly selective and efficient catalysts play a critical role for all these processes. Materials that are able to withstand high temperature and pressure reactions in an aqueous phase are also an essential requirement.

This talk will present general aspects of Sud-Chemie's efforts in catalyst research and development for these purposes, with emphases on conversion of glycerin and sorbitol to 1,2-propanediol, and other emerging biochemicals.