Catalytic Upgrading of Bioethanol to Fuel Grade Biobutanol: A Review

Abstract

Biobutanol is increasingly attracting industrial interest as fuel additive due to its numerous advantages over bioethanol that include higher calorific value, fuel efficiency and reducedengine problems. Therefore, bioethanol valorization to biobutanol provides a good option for the energy industry. The paper reviewed literature on the recent progress for the ethanol to butanol (ETB) process. Issues related to catalyst development and the role of compositional properties (i.e. catalyst nature and acidity-basicity) and reaction parameters in enhancing butanol yield were critically examined. The mini review also discussed the reaction mechanisms involved and identified new paths for further studies.

Hydrodeoxygenation of Fatty Acids, Triglycerides, and Ketones to Liquid Alkanes by a Pt–MoOx/TiO2 Catalyst

“…Catalytic hydrogenation of biomass‐derived oxygenates to liquid alkanes has attracted much attention in view of the high potential for biomass conversion to fuels . Triglycerides and fatty acids from microalgae and jatropha are considered as promising candidates for renewable resources from biofuels.…”

Carbon Supported Alkaline Catalysts for Guerbet Coupling of Bioethanol

“…Numerous investigations have shown over a variety of heterogeneous systems, including zeolites, MgO, MgAl mixed oxides and hydroxyapatites [7,8]. Hydroxyapatites are particularly noteworthy because higher activity and selectivity to butanol [9,10].…”

Recently developed applications for natural hydrophilic polymers

“…Among the known natural polymers, polysaccharides such as chitosan, alginate, and pectin are produced in large scales and are routinely consumed as gelling and thickening agents within the food industry and other related industries [227][228][229][230]. Particular interest exists for the fabrication of nanofibers due to their abundance, biocompatibility, functional ionic groups, and inherent biological activity [231][232][233][234]. Pectin nanofibers can be used in food and medical products.…”