Selective catalytic conversion of Lignocellulosic biomass components to chemicals

The PhD research program investigated a novel biorefinery process to convert entire lignocellulosic biomass to high value-added products. This green process involves: (a) the direct depolymerization of sugarcane bagasse to bioaromatics with high yield via one-pot oxidation-hydrogenation method, (b) production of the alkylated mono-sugars, and (c) simple carbohydrate-to-5-HMF conversion by a cheap and effective photocatalyst. The advantages of this approach include no acid, base or toxic chemicals are used, worked under relatively mild operating conditions, and the use of green solvents and solar energy. Products obtained from this project can be further upgraded to high performance materials and chemicals