Copper-Iron-Aluminum Catalyst for Glycerol Hydrogenolysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for hydrogenolysis of glycerol to produce 1,2-propanediol suffer from low conversion rates and selectivity, and lack catalysts containing copper, iron, and aluminum components.
Innovation Solution
A catalyst containing a copper component, an iron component, and an aluminum component, with a specific atomic ratio, is used for hydrogenolysis of glycerol, allowing for high selectivity and yield of 1,2-propanediol production, and the catalyst can be recovered and reused.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional hydrogenolysis methods using Ni-Re/C, Ru/C, Cu-Zn/Al2O3, Cu-ZnO, or Cu-Cr catalysts are employed, then glycerol can be converted to 1,2-propanediol, but the conversion rate and selectivity remain low
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs a composite catalyst system comprising copper component, iron component, and aluminum component in specific weight ratios (Cu:Fe:Al = 1:(0.02-2.5):(0.5-5.0)). This composite material approach combines multiple metal components to achieve synergistic effects, simultaneously improving both the conversion rate and selectivity to 1,2-propanediol, resolving the technical contradiction between productivity and manufacturing precision.
2Productivity
If existing hydrogenolysis catalysts are used, then the reaction can proceed, but the catalyst cannot be effectively recovered and reused
Solution Approach 1:
The invention designs the catalyst system with recoverability in mind. The catalyst comprising copper, iron, and aluminum components can be separated from the reaction mixture and reused. This recovering principle addresses the technical contradiction by enabling catalyst recovery and reuse, thereby improving operational efficiency without compromising the ease of manufacture through simple separation and regeneration processes.
3Quantity of substance
If glycerol is produced in excess from bio-diesel fuel production, then supply of polyhydric alcohol increases, but applications become limited and effective utilization is demanded
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms glycerol into high-value 1,2-propanediol through hydrogenolysis reaction under optimized conditions (specific temperature, pressure, and catalyst composition). This parameter change in chemical transformation expands the application scope from limited glycerol uses to diverse 1,2-PD applications in polyester resins, paints, plasticizers, anti-freezing fluids, and food additives, resolving the contradiction between quantity supply and adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The process achieves a high conversion rate and selectivity of glycerol to 1,2-propanediol, with the catalyst's recoverability and reusability enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
reacting the glycerol with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst containing a copper component, an iron component and an aluminum component
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a process for producing hydrogenolysis products of polyhydric alcohols with a good selectivity and a high yield, as well as hydrogenolysis catalysts used in the production process. The present invention provides (1) a process for producing a hydrogenolysis product of a polyhydric alcohol which includes the step of reacting the polyhydric alcohol with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst containing a copper component, wherein the catalyst is a catalyst (A) containing the copper component, an iron component and an aluminum component, or a catalyst (B) containing the copper component and a silicon component; and (2) a hydrogenolysis catalyst for polyhydric alcohols which includes a copper component, an iron component and an aluminum component, and (3) a hydrogenolysis catalyst for polyhydric alcohols which includes a copper component and a silicon component.