I&EC 14 |
| α-Crystalline cellulose is the most recalcitrant portion of biomass carbohydrates. Under the usually severe and acidic conditions required for digestion of this fraction, most of the desired aldose platform chemical (glucose) reacts further to undesired mixtures. However, replacing the usual Bronsted acid catalyst with certain salts, which are sensitive to microwave heating, enhances the relative rate of cellulose dissolutions and allows some selectivity of product. Thus, various salt-microwave methods afford good conversions of α-crystalline cellulose to certain platform chemicals. Separation and recycle of the saltwater may assist the economics of such processes. |
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Feedstocks for the Future II: Renewables for the Production of Chemicals and Materials
8:30 AM-12:00 PM, Monday, August 20, 2007 Boston Park Plaza -- Clarendon Rm, Oral
Division of Industrial & Engineering Chemistry |