Direct catalytic conversion cellulose pyrolysis vapors into long chain alkanes (LCAs) over Au/TS-1

How to reduce reaction pressure and hydrogen consumption is a hot and difficult issue for the conversion of biomass to produce alkanes. In this research, vapors from cellulose pyrolysis were converted into alkanes without extra hydrogen source. The effect of content of Au loading, mass ratio of catalyst to cellulose, pyrolysis and catalytic temperature on the production of LCAs was studied. Model compounds were used to explore possible mechanism for the formation of LCAs. At the optimal reaction condition, the highest selectivity and yield of LCAs were 89.2% and 14.4 wt%, respectively, over 1.0% Au/TS-1. Alcohol functional groups are contributed to the formation of LCAs over Au/TS-1.