One-Pot Sugar Conversion Using Recyclable Bimetallic Catalysts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for the direct conversion of sugar to valuable products like 1,2-propanediol are inefficient, require high temperatures and pressures, and use unstable, costly catalysts, making them commercially unattractive and environmentally harmful.
Innovation Solution
A one-pot, one-step process using non-noble metal catalysts supported on a support, such as Ni-Mo/Al2O3, at moderate conditions to convert sugar into value-added products like 1,2-propanediol with high yield and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If existing methods for direct conversion of sugar to value added products are used, then conversion of sugar can be achieved, but the process requires high temperatures and pressures, resulting in high energy consumption and environmental harm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the reaction parameters by using moderate temperatures (100-200°C) and pressures (1-10 atm) instead of high temperatures and pressures, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective conversion of sugar to value added products through the use of optimized catalysts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces harsh physical conditions (high temperature and pressure) with a chemically optimized system using catalysts, thereby achieving the same conversion effect with milder conditions and lower energy input
2Reliability
If existing catalysts are used for conversion of sugar, then conversion can occur, but the catalysts are unstable and costly, making the process commercially unattractive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs cost-effective catalysts such as metal oxides and zeolites that are inexpensive to manufacture and replace, thereby reducing the overall process cost while maintaining sufficient stability for commercial applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite catalyst systems combining metal oxides with zeolites or other supports, which enhance catalyst stability and reusability while keeping manufacturing costs low through the use of abundant, non-noble materials
3Productivity
If batch reactor is used for conversion of sugar, then conversion can be achieved, but charring and side reactions occur, resulting in low yield of desired products
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces carefully selected catalysts as intermediaries that facilitate the conversion of sugar to desired products through controlled reaction pathways, preventing direct decomposition reactions that lead to charring and unwanted side products
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes reaction parameters including temperature, pressure, and catalyst concentration to favor the formation of desired value added products while suppressing side reactions and charring, thereby improving overall product yield and selectivity
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
Achieves 100% conversion of sugar to valuable products under mild conditions, with a reusable and cost-effective catalyst system, overcoming inefficiencies and environmental impacts of previous methods.
Implementation Method 1
using a catalyst containing non-noble metal(s) supported onto a support to obtain said valuable products with 100% conversion of the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
An efficient one step, one pot process of synthesis of value-added products such as diols, monools and/or acids, preferably 1,2-PG from sugars/polysachhrides is disclosed. The process is catalyzed by a bimetallic catalyst supported on alumina and the catalyst is recyclable. The process of synthesis of the catalyst is a simple process and it converts a high % of the substrates to the desired polyols under mild conditions.