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Catalysts, Volume 10, Issue 3 (March 2020) – 90 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): In this paper, Mosinska and co-workers report highly efficient bimetallic Cu–Ni catalysts supported on binary oxides prepared via wet impregnation for hydrogen generation. These materials could become the future catalytic systems applied in mobile and other devices based on fuel cell technology.View this paper.
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19 pages, 2851 KiB  
Article
Development and Validation of a LC-MS/MS Method for Determination of Multi-Class Antibiotic Residues in Aquaculture and River Waters, and Photocatalytic Degradation of Antibiotics by TiO2 Nanomaterials
by Tho Chau Minh Vinh Do, Duy Quoc Nguyen, Tuan Duc Nguyen and Phuoc Huu Le
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030356 - 24 Mar 2020
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5797
Abstract
This study presents a multi-residue method for simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of eight antibiotics from some common classes, including beta-lactam, tetracyclines, lincosamides, glycopeptides, and sulfonamides in 39 aquaculture and river water samples from the Mekong Delta (Vietnam) using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry [...] Read more.
This study presents a multi-residue method for simultaneous qualitative and quantitative analysis of eight antibiotics from some common classes, including beta-lactam, tetracyclines, lincosamides, glycopeptides, and sulfonamides in 39 aquaculture and river water samples from the Mekong Delta (Vietnam) using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). As a result, doxycycline (DXC), oxytetracycline (OTC), lincomycin (LCM), sulfamethoxazole (SMX), and sulfamethazine (SMZ) were detected with high frequency over 65% and an average concentration of 22.6–76.8 ng·mL−1. The result suggests that antibiotic residues in the aquaculture and river waters are considered as an emerging environmental problem of the region. To address this issue, we fabricated the well-defined TiO2 nanotube arrays (TNAs) and nanowires on nanotube arrays (TNWs/TNAs) using the anodization method. The TNAs had an inner tube diameter of ~95 nm and a wall thickness of ~25 nm. Meanwhile, the TNWs/TNAs had a layer of TiO2 nanowires with a length of ~6 µm partially covering the TNAs. In addition, both TNAs and TNWs/TNAs had pure anatase phase TiO2 with (101) and (112) dominant preferred orientations. Moreover, the TNAs and TNWs/TNAs effectively and rapidly degraded the antibiotic residues under UV-VIS irradiation at 120 mW/cm2 and obtained over 95% removal at 20 min. Indeed, the photocatalytic reaction rate constants (k) were in the range of 0.14–0.36 min−1 for TNAs, and 0.15–0.38 min−1 for TNWs/TNAs. Noticeably, the k values of TNWs/TNAs were slightly higher than those of TNAs for LCM, DXC, OTC, SMZ, and SMX that could be attributed to the larger surface area of TNWs/TNAs than TNAs when TNWs/TNAs had an additional ~6μm TNWs top layer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in TiO2 Photocatalysts)
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14 pages, 3984 KiB  
Article
Selectivity Dependence of 1,1-Difluoro-1-Chloroethane Dehydrohalogenation on the Metal–Support Interaction over SrF2 Catalyst
by Wucan Liu, Yongnan Liu, Kabozya M. Mardochee, Zhikun Wang, Shucheng Wang, Wei Yu, Jianjun Zhang and Wenfeng Han
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030355 - 23 Mar 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3347
Abstract
SrF2 promotes the dehydrochlorination (DeHCl) of 1,1-difluoro-1-chloroethane, which is the key process for the manufacture of VDF (vinylidene fluoride), one of the most typical fluorinated monomers. However, the selectivity is low as dehydrofluorination (DeHF) to VCF (vinylidene chlorofluoride) competes with the formation [...] Read more.
SrF2 promotes the dehydrochlorination (DeHCl) of 1,1-difluoro-1-chloroethane, which is the key process for the manufacture of VDF (vinylidene fluoride), one of the most typical fluorinated monomers. However, the selectivity is low as dehydrofluorination (DeHF) to VCF (vinylidene chlorofluoride) competes with the formation of VDF. In this study, SrF2@C (SrF2 embedded in carbon) and SrF2@NC (N-doped carbon) catalysts were fabricated following calcination in N2 with SrC2O4, PVDF (poly vinylidene fluoride) and urea as the precursors. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS. The results show that both the calcination temperature and N-doping play an important role in the conversion of HCFC-142b and the selectivity to VDF and VCF. Calcination at elevated temperatures enhances the Sr-C interaction. For SrF2@C, improved interaction facilitates withdrawing electrons from Sr by the carbon support. By contrast, the strong interaction of Sr with N-doped carbon supply electrons from N species to Sr. The electron deficiency of Sr is favorable for the adsorption of F with higher electronegativity and consequently, DeHF reaction forming VCF. The supply of electrons to Sr by the support improves the formation of VDF (DeHCl). The present work provides a potential strategy for the improvement of selectivity to the target product. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal/Metal Oxide-Support Interactions in Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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16 pages, 3657 KiB  
Article
Promoting Li/MgO Catalyst with Molybdenum Oxide for Oxidative Conversion of n-Hexane
by Cassia Boyadjian and Leon Lefferts
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030354 - 23 Mar 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3676
Abstract
In this work, molybdena-promoted Li/MgO is studied as a catalyst for the oxidative conversion of n-hexane. The structure of the catalysts is investigated with X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The MoO3/Li/MgO catalyst contains three types of molybdena-containing species, the presence [...] Read more.
In this work, molybdena-promoted Li/MgO is studied as a catalyst for the oxidative conversion of n-hexane. The structure of the catalysts is investigated with X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The MoO3/Li/MgO catalyst contains three types of molybdena-containing species, the presence of which depend on molybdena loading. At low Mo/Li ratios (i) isolated dispersed [MoO4]2− anionic species are observed. At high Mo/Li ratios, the formation of crystalline lithium molybdate phases such as (ii) monomeric Li2MoO4 and tentatively (iii) polymeric Li2Mo4O13 are concluded. The presence of these lithium molybdates diminishes the formation of Li2CO3 in the catalyst. Subsequently, the catalyst maintains high surface area and stability with time-on-stream during oxidative conversion. Molybdena loading as low as 0.5 wt % is sufficient to induce these improvements, maintaining the non-redox characteristics of the catalyst, whereas higher loadings enhance deep oxidation and oxidative dehydrogenation reactions. Promoting a Li/MgO catalyst with 0.5 wt % MoO3 is thus efficient for selective conversion of n-hexane to alkenes, giving alkene yield up to 24% as well as good stability. Full article
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8 pages, 1358 KiB  
Communication
Biomass-Derived Nitrogen-Doped Porous Carbon for Highly Efficient Ambient Electro-Synthesis of NH3
by Qinglin Li, Xiufang Chen and Yong Yang
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030353 - 22 Mar 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3339
Abstract
In this communication, we report a biomass-derived nitrogen-doped porous carbon (named as NC-800) as an electrocatalyst for the ambient conversion of N2 to NH3. The catalyst NC-800 was prepared from naturally renewable and easily available bamboo shoots, with inherently an [...] Read more.
In this communication, we report a biomass-derived nitrogen-doped porous carbon (named as NC-800) as an electrocatalyst for the ambient conversion of N2 to NH3. The catalyst NC-800 was prepared from naturally renewable and easily available bamboo shoots, with inherently an approximate 8 wt % of N-containing components, such as the N source, in a cost-effective and environmentally benign manner. This exhibited remarkable catalytic activity with a large NH3 yield and a Faradaic efficiency as high as 16.3 μg hmg-1cat and 27.5%, respectively, at −0.35 V versus a reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in 0.1 M HCl solution at ambient conditions. More importantly, the catalyst NC-800 demonstrated excellent electrochemical selectivity and stability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrocatalysis)
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38 pages, 2090 KiB  
Review
A Short Review on Ni Based Catalysts and Related Engineering Issues for Methane Steam Reforming
by Eugenio Meloni, Marco Martino and Vincenzo Palma
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030352 - 22 Mar 2020
Cited by 186 | Viewed by 20170
Abstract
Hydrogen is an important raw material in chemical industries, and the steam reforming of light hydrocarbons (such as methane) is the most used process for its production. In this process, the use of a catalyst is mandatory and, if compared to precious metal-based [...] Read more.
Hydrogen is an important raw material in chemical industries, and the steam reforming of light hydrocarbons (such as methane) is the most used process for its production. In this process, the use of a catalyst is mandatory and, if compared to precious metal-based catalysts, Ni-based catalysts assure an acceptable high activity and a lower cost. The aim of a distributed hydrogen production, for example, through an on-site type hydrogen station, is only reachable if a novel reforming system is developed, with some unique properties that are not present in the large-scale reforming system. These properties include, among the others, (i) daily startup and shutdown (DSS) operation ability, (ii) rapid response to load fluctuation, (iii) compactness of device, and (iv) excellent thermal exchange. In this sense, the catalyst has an important role. There is vast amount of information in the literature regarding the performance of catalysts in methane steam reforming. In this short review, an overview on the most recent advances in Ni based catalysts for methane steam reforming is given, also regarding the use of innovative structured catalysts. Full article
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13 pages, 2697 KiB  
Article
Atomic-Level Dispersion of Bismuth over Co3O4 Nanocrystals—Outstanding Promotional Effect in Catalytic DeN2O
by Sylwia Wójcik, Thomas Thersleff, Klaudia Gębska, Gabriela Grzybek and Andrzej Kotarba
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030351 - 22 Mar 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4458
Abstract
A series of cobalt spinel catalysts doped with bismuth in a broad range of 0–15.4 wt % was prepared by the co-precipitation method. The catalysts were thoroughly characterized by several physicochemical methods (X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (µRS), X-ray [...] Read more.
A series of cobalt spinel catalysts doped with bismuth in a broad range of 0–15.4 wt % was prepared by the co-precipitation method. The catalysts were thoroughly characterized by several physicochemical methods (X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (µRS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), nitrogen adsorption analyzed with Brunaer-Emmett-Teller theory (N2-BET), work function measurements (WF)), as well as aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). The optimal bismuth promoter content was found to be 6.6 wt %, which remarkably enhanced the performance of the cobalt spinel catalyst, shifting the N2O decomposition (deN2O) temperature window (T50%) down from approximately 400 °C (for Co3O4) to 240 °C (for the 6.6 wt % Bi-Co3O4 catalyst). The high-resolution STEM images revealed that the high activity of the 6.6 wt % Bi-Co3O4 catalyst can be associated with an even, atomic-level dispersion (3.5 at. nm−2) of bismuth over the surface of cobalt spinel nanocrystals. The improvement in catalytic activity was accompanied by an observed increase in the work function. We concluded that Bi promoted mostly the oxygen recombination step of a deN2O reaction, thus demonstrating for the first time the key role of the atomic-level dispersion of a surface promoter in deN2O reactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Decomposition of N2O and NO)
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23 pages, 6186 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress in N-Heterocyclic Carbene Gold-Catalyzed Reactions of Alkynes Involving Oxidation/Amination/Cycloaddition
by Xiang-Ting Tang, Fan Yang, Ting-Ting Zhang, Yi-Fan Liu, Si-Yu Liu, Tong-Fu Su, Dong-Can Lv and Wen-Bo Shen
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030350 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5956
Abstract
Recent rapid development in homogeneous gold catalysis affords an alternative and particularly thriving strategy for the generation of gold carbenes through gold-catalyzed oxidation/amination/cycloaddition of alkynes, while it avoids the employment of hazardous and potentially explosive diazo compounds as starting materials for carbene generation. [...] Read more.
Recent rapid development in homogeneous gold catalysis affords an alternative and particularly thriving strategy for the generation of gold carbenes through gold-catalyzed oxidation/amination/cycloaddition of alkynes, while it avoids the employment of hazardous and potentially explosive diazo compounds as starting materials for carbene generation. In addition to facile and secure operation, gold carbenes generated in this strategy display good chemoselectivity distinct from other metal carbenes produced from the related diazo approach. N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) gold is a special metal complex that can be used as ancillary ligands, which provides enhanced stability and can also act as an efficient chiral directing group. In this review, we will present an overview of these recent advances in alkyne oxidation/amination/cycloaddition by highlighting their specificity and applicability, aiming to facilitate progress in this very exciting area of research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes and Their Complexes in Catalysis)
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11 pages, 1318 KiB  
Article
Density Functional Theory Based Micro- and Macro-Kinetic Studies of Ni-Catalyzed Methanol Steam Reforming
by Changming Ke and Zijing Lin
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030349 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3516
Abstract
The intrinsic mechanism of Ni-catalyzed methanol steam reforming (MSR) is examined by considering 54 elementary reaction steps involved in MSR over Ni(111). Density functional theory computations and transition state theory analyses are performed on the elementary reaction network. A microkinetic model is constructed [...] Read more.
The intrinsic mechanism of Ni-catalyzed methanol steam reforming (MSR) is examined by considering 54 elementary reaction steps involved in MSR over Ni(111). Density functional theory computations and transition state theory analyses are performed on the elementary reaction network. A microkinetic model is constructed by combining the quantum chemical results with a continuous stirring tank reactor model. MSR rates deduced from the microkinetic model agree with the available experimental data. The microkinetic model is used to identify the main reaction pathway, the rate determining step, and the coverages of surface species. An analytical expression of MSR rate is derived based on the dominant reaction pathway and the coverages of surface species. The analytical rate equation is easy to use and should be very helpful for the design and optimization of the operating conditions of MSR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Steam Reforming)
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15 pages, 6099 KiB  
Article
Ternary Composite of Co-Doped CdSe@electrospun Carbon Nanofibers: A Novel Reusable Visible Light-Driven Photocatalyst with Enhanced Performance
by Gopal Panthi, Oh Hoon Kwon, Yun-Su Kuk, Kapil Raj Gyawali, Yong Wan Park and Mira Park
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030348 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4009
Abstract
In this work, flexible ternary composites of cobalt-doped cadmium selenide/electrospun carbon nanofibers (Co-CdSe@ECNFs) for photocatalytic applications were fabricated successfully via electrospinning, followed by carbonization. For the fabrication of the proposed photocatalysts, Co-CdSe nanoparticles were grown in situ on the surface of ECNFs during [...] Read more.
In this work, flexible ternary composites of cobalt-doped cadmium selenide/electrospun carbon nanofibers (Co-CdSe@ECNFs) for photocatalytic applications were fabricated successfully via electrospinning, followed by carbonization. For the fabrication of the proposed photocatalysts, Co-CdSe nanoparticles were grown in situ on the surface of ECNFs during the carbonization of precursor electrospun nanofibers obtained by dispersing Se powder in the electrospinning solution of polyacrylonitrile/N,N-Dimethylformamide (PAN/DMF) containing Cd2+ and Co2+. The photocatalytic performance of synthesized samples is investigated in the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB) dyes. Experimental results revealed the superior photocatalytic efficiency of Co-CdSe@ECNFs over undoped samples (CdSe@ECNFs) due to the doping effect of cobalt, which is able to capture the photogenerated electrons to prevent electron–hole recombination, thereby improving photocatalytic performance. Moreover, ECNFs could play an important role in enhancing electron transfer and optical absorption of the photocatalyst. This type of fabrication strategy may be a new avenue for the synthesis of other ECNF-based ternary composites. Full article
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14 pages, 4811 KiB  
Article
Catalytic Oxidation of Chlorobenzene over Pd-TiO2 /Pd-Ce/TiO2 Catalysts
by Wenjun Liang, Xiaoyan Du, Yuxue Zhu, Sida Ren and Jian Li
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030347 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3784
Abstract
A series of Pd-TiO2/Pd-Ce/TiO2 catalysts were prepared by an equal volume impregnation method. The effects of different Pd loadings on the catalytic activity of chlorobenzene (CB) were investigated, and the results showed that the activity of the 0.2%-0.3% Pd/TiO2 [...] Read more.
A series of Pd-TiO2/Pd-Ce/TiO2 catalysts were prepared by an equal volume impregnation method. The effects of different Pd loadings on the catalytic activity of chlorobenzene (CB) were investigated, and the results showed that the activity of the 0.2%-0.3% Pd/TiO2 catalyst was optimal. The effect of Ce doping enhanced the catalytic activity of the 0.2% Pd-0.5% Ce/TiO2 catalyst. The characterization of the catalysts using BET, TEM, H2-TPR, and O2-TPD showed that the oxidation capacity was enhanced, and the catalytic oxidation efficiency was improved due to the addition of Ce. Ion chromatography and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer results showed that small amounts of dichlorobenzene (DCB) and trichlorobenzene (TCB) were formed during the decomposition of CB. The results also indicated that the calcination temperature greatly influenced the catalyst activity and a calcination temperature of 550 °C was the best. The concentration of CB affected its decomposition, but gas hourly space velocity had little effect. H2-TPR indicated strong metal–support interactions and increased dispersion of PdO in the presence of Ce. HRTEM data showed PdO with a characteristic spacing of 0.26 nm in both 0.2% Pd /TiO2 and 0.2% Pd-0.5% Ce/TiO2 catalysts. The average sizes of PdO nanoparticles in the 0.2% Pd/TiO2 and 0.2% Pd-0.5% Ce/TiO2 samples were 5.8 and 4.7 nm, respectively. The PdO particles were also deposited on the support and they were separated from each other in both catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Metal/Metal Oxide-Support Interactions in Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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21 pages, 5049 KiB  
Article
Hydrogen Production via the Oxy-Steam Reforming of LNG or Methane on Ni Catalysts
by Pawel Mierczynski, Natalia Stępińska, Magdalena Mosinska, Karolina Chalupka, Jadwiga Albinska, Waldemar Maniukiewicz, Jacek Rogowski, Magdalena Nowosielska and Malgorzata I. Szynkowska
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030346 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3102
Abstract
Ni catalysts supported on ZrO2, 5%CeO2-ZrO2, and 5%La2O3-ZrO2 were prepared via the impregnation method and tested in the oxy-steam reforming of methane and liquified natural gas (LNG). All tested catalysts exhibited high [...] Read more.
Ni catalysts supported on ZrO2, 5%CeO2-ZrO2, and 5%La2O3-ZrO2 were prepared via the impregnation method and tested in the oxy-steam reforming of methane and liquified natural gas (LNG). All tested catalysts exhibited high catalytic activity in the studied process at 700 and 900 °C. The improvement of the stability of Ni catalysts after the addition of CeO2 oxide in the studied oxy-steam reforming of LNG process was confirmed. In addition, high activity and selectivity towards hydrogen was proven in the oxy-steam reforming process at 900 °C over a 20%Ni/5%CeO2-ZrO2 catalyst. It was also proved that the addition of CeO2 onto a ZrO2 carrier leads to a decrease in the NiO and metallic Ni crystallite sizes that were detected by the X-Ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The solid solution formation between NiO and ZrO2 and/or NiO and CeO2 was proved. Superior reactivity in the oxy-steam reforming of CH4 and the LNG process exhibited a 20%Ni/ZrO2 catalyst, which showed the highest methane conversions at 500 and 600 °C, equal to 63% and 89%, respectively. In addition, also in the case of the LNG reforming reaction, the most active catalyst was the 20%Ni/ZrO2 system, which demonstrated 46.3% and 76.9% of the methane conversion value at 500 and 600 °C and the total conversion of others hydrocarbons (ethane, propane and butane). In addition, this catalytic system exhibited the highest selectivity towards hydrogen formation in the oxy-steam reforming of the LNG reaction equal to 71.2% and 71.3% at 500 and 600 °C, respectively. The highest activity of this system can be explained by the uniform distributions of Ni species and their highest concentration compared to the rest of the monometallic Ni catalysts. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) results also confirmed a strong interaction of NiO with ZrO2 in the case of the 20%Ni/ZrO2 catalysts. The presence of selected NiZrO+ ions emitted from the investigated surface of the 20%Ni/ZrO2 system was detected. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysts for Production and Conversion of Syngas)
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14 pages, 3866 KiB  
Article
Poisoning Effects of Phosphorus, Potassium and Lead on V2O5-WO3/TiO2 Catalysts for Selective Catalytic Reduction with NH3
by Jifa Miao, Xianfang Yi, Qingfa Su, Huirong Li, Jinsheng Chen and Jinxiu Wang
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030345 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3752
Abstract
The poisoning effect of single elements on commercial V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalysts has been studied in the past decades. In this study, the combined effects of two multi-element systems (phosphorus-potassium and phosphorus-lead) on V2O5-WO [...] Read more.
The poisoning effect of single elements on commercial V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalysts has been studied in the past decades. In this study, the combined effects of two multi-element systems (phosphorus-potassium and phosphorus-lead) on V2O5-WO3/TiO2 catalysts were studied by diverse characterizations. The results show that potassium and lead can result in the deactivation of catalysts to different degrees by reacting with active acid sites and reducing the amount of V5+. However, phosphorus displays slight negative influence on the NOx conversion of the catalyst due to the comprehensive effect of reducing V5+ amount and generating new acid sites. The samples poisoned by phosphorus–potassium and phosphorus–lead have higher NOx conversion than that by potassium or lead, because doped potassium or lead atoms may react with new acid sites generated by phosphate, which liberates more V–OH on the surface of catalysts and reduces the poisoning effects of potassium or lead on vanadium species and active oxygen species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Catalysis)
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11 pages, 1804 KiB  
Article
Degradation of Meropenem by Heterogeneous Photocatalysis Using TiO2/Fiberglass Substrates
by Alejandro Altamirano Briones, Iván Cóndor Guevara, David Mena, Isabel Espinoza, Christian Sandoval-Pauker, Luis Ramos Guerrero, Paul Vargas Jentzsch and Florinella Muñoz Bisesti
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030344 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4873
Abstract
Meropenem (MER), a carbapenem, is considered a last-resort antibiotic. Its presence in water bodies, together with other antibiotics, has brought about environmental problems related to the destruction of natural microorganisms and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Herein, the degradation of MER by heterogeneous [...] Read more.
Meropenem (MER), a carbapenem, is considered a last-resort antibiotic. Its presence in water bodies, together with other antibiotics, has brought about environmental problems related to the destruction of natural microorganisms and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Herein, the degradation of MER by heterogeneous photocatalysis using TiO2 immobilized on fiberglass substrates is reported. Morphological characterization of the substrates was performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Three pH values (4.0, 5.7, and 7.9) were tested for the treatment of MER solutions (100 mg/L). The best rate constants and MER removals were obtained at pH 4.0 (0.032 min−1; 83.79%) and 5.7 (0.032 min−1; 83.48%). Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) removals of 25.80% and 29.60% were achieved for the treatment at a pH value of 5.7. The reuse and regeneration of the plates were also tested. The activity of the substrates was maintained until the fourth cycle of reuse, nonetheless, a decrease in MER removal was observed for the 5th cycle. After the fourth cycle of reuse, the activity of the substrates was recovered by a regeneration procedure involving a wash stage of the substrates with a 1% H2O2 solution in an ultrasonic bath. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Wastes in Water)
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4 pages, 153 KiB  
Editorial
Catalysts for Oxidative Destruction of Volatile Organic Compounds
by Stuart H. Taylor
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030343 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2513
Abstract
On a worldwide scale, concern for our environment has understandably gained high priority in many current political and social agendas [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysts for Oxidative Destruction of Volatile Organic Compounds)
13 pages, 1775 KiB  
Article
The Influence of the Gold Particle Size on the Catalytic Oxidation of 5-(Hydroxymethyl)furfural
by Oliver Schade, Paolo Dolcet, Alexei Nefedov, Xiaohui Huang, Erisa Saraçi, Christof Wöll and Jan-Dierk Grunwaldt
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030342 - 19 Mar 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4548
Abstract
For the production of chemicals from biomass, new selective processes are required. The selective oxidation of 5-(Hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF), a promising platform molecule in fine chemistry, to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is considered a promising approach and requires the oxidation of two functional groups. In [...] Read more.
For the production of chemicals from biomass, new selective processes are required. The selective oxidation of 5-(Hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF), a promising platform molecule in fine chemistry, to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is considered a promising approach and requires the oxidation of two functional groups. In this study, Au/ZrO2 catalysts with different mean particle sizes were prepared by a chemical reduction method using tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium chloride (THPC) and tested in HMF oxidation. The catalyst with the smallest mean particle size (2.1 nm) and the narrowest particle size distribution was highly active in the oxidation of the aldehyde moiety of HMF, but less active in alcohol oxidation. On the other hand, increased activity in FDCA synthesis up to 92% yield was observed over catalysts with a larger mean particle size (2.7 nm), which had a large fraction of small and some larger particles. A decreasing FDCA yield over the catalyst with the largest mean particle size (2.9 nm) indicates that the oxidation of both functional groups require different particle sizes and hint at the presence of an optimal particle size for both oxidation steps. The activity of Au particles seems to be influenced by surface steps and H bonding strength, the latter particularly in aldehyde oxidation. Therefore, the presence of both small and some larger Au particles seem to give catalysts with the highest catalytic activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Transformation of Renewables (Olefin, Bio-sourced, et. al))
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2 pages, 164 KiB  
Editorial
Catalysis for Global Development. Contributions around the Iberoamerican Federation of Catalysis
by Helder Gomes and Joaquim Faria
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030341 - 19 Mar 2020
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1840
Abstract
Following biennial meetings held since 1968, the Iberoamerican Federation of Catalysis Societies (FISoCat), the Portuguese Chemical Society (SPQ) and the University of Coimbra jointly organized the XXVI Iberoamerican Congress on Catalysis (CICat 2018), which took place in the historic city of Coimbra, Portugal, [...] Read more.
Following biennial meetings held since 1968, the Iberoamerican Federation of Catalysis Societies (FISoCat), the Portuguese Chemical Society (SPQ) and the University of Coimbra jointly organized the XXVI Iberoamerican Congress on Catalysis (CICat 2018), which took place in the historic city of Coimbra, Portugal, between the 9th and 14th of September 2018 [...] Full article
9 pages, 1399 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of a Bcl9 Alpha-Helix Mimetic for Inhibition of PPIs by a Combination of Electrooxidative Phenol Coupling and Pd-Catalyzed Cross Coupling
by Martin Vareka, Benedikt Dahms, Mario Lang, Minh Hao Hoang, Melanie Trobe, Hansjörg Weber, Maximilian M. Hielscher, Siegfried R. Waldvogel and Rolf Breinbauer
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030340 - 19 Mar 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4274
Abstract
Teraryl-based alpha-helix mimetics have resulted in efficient inhibitors of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Extending the concept to even longer oligoarene systems would allow for the mimicking of even larger interaction sites. We present a highly efficient synthetic modular access to quateraryl alpha-helix mimetics, in [...] Read more.
Teraryl-based alpha-helix mimetics have resulted in efficient inhibitors of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Extending the concept to even longer oligoarene systems would allow for the mimicking of even larger interaction sites. We present a highly efficient synthetic modular access to quateraryl alpha-helix mimetics, in which, at first, two phenols undergo electrooxidative dehydrogenative cross-coupling. The resulting 4,4′-biphenol is then activated by conversion to nonaflates, which serve as leaving groups for iterative Pd-catalyzed Suzuki-cross-coupling reactions with suitably substituted pyridine boronic acids. This work, for the first time, demonstrates the synthetic efficiency of using both electroorganic as well as transition-metal catalyzed cross-coupling in the assembly of oligoarene structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transition Metal Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions)
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13 pages, 2408 KiB  
Article
Natural Variation in the ‘Control Loop’ of BVMOAFL210 and Its Influence on Regioselectivity and Sulfoxidation
by Carmien Tolmie, Rodolpho do Aido-Machado, Felix Martin Ferroni, Martha Sophia Smit and Diederik Johannes Opperman
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030339 - 19 Mar 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3728
Abstract
Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are flavin-dependent enzymes that primarily convert ketones to esters, but can also catalyze heteroatom oxidation. Several structural studies have highlighted the importance of the ‘control loop’ in BVMOs, which adopts different conformations during catalysis. Central to the ‘control loop’ is [...] Read more.
Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are flavin-dependent enzymes that primarily convert ketones to esters, but can also catalyze heteroatom oxidation. Several structural studies have highlighted the importance of the ‘control loop’ in BVMOs, which adopts different conformations during catalysis. Central to the ‘control loop’ is a conserved tryptophan that has been implicated in NADP(H) binding. BVMOAFL210 from Aspergillus flavus, however, contains a threonine in the equivalent position. Here, we report the structure of BVMOAFL210 in complex with NADP+ in both the ‘open’ and ‘closed’ conformations. In neither conformation does Thr513 contact the NADP+. Although mutagenesis of Thr513 did not significantly alter the substrate scope, changes in peroxyflavin stability and reaction rates were observed. Mutation of this position also brought about changes in the regio- and enantioselectivity of the enzyme. Moreover, lower rates of overoxidation during sulfoxidation of thioanisole were also observed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavin Monooxygenases)
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15 pages, 2519 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in Enzyme-Nanostructure Biocatalysts with Enhanced Activity
by Jing An, Galong Li, Yifan Zhang, Tingbin Zhang, Xiaoli Liu, Fei Gao, Mingli Peng, Yuan He and Haiming Fan
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030338 - 18 Mar 2020
Cited by 56 | Viewed by 6227
Abstract
Owing to their unique physicochemical properties and comparable size to biomacromolecules, functional nanostructures have served as powerful supports to construct enzyme-nanostructure biocatalysts (nanobiocatalysts). Of particular importance, recent years have witnessed the development of novel nanobiocatalysts with remarkably increased enzyme activities. This review provides [...] Read more.
Owing to their unique physicochemical properties and comparable size to biomacromolecules, functional nanostructures have served as powerful supports to construct enzyme-nanostructure biocatalysts (nanobiocatalysts). Of particular importance, recent years have witnessed the development of novel nanobiocatalysts with remarkably increased enzyme activities. This review provides a comprehensive description of recent advances in the field of nanobiocatalysts, with systematic elaboration of the underlying mechanisms of activity enhancement, including metal ion activation, electron transfer, morphology effects, mass transfer limitations, and conformation changes. The nanobiocatalysts highlighted here are expected to provide an insight into enzyme–nanostructure interaction, and provide a guideline for future design of high-efficiency nanobiocatalysts in both fundamental research and practical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art and Future Trends in Nanostructured Biocatalysis)
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15 pages, 1686 KiB  
Article
Autocatalytic Fractionation of Wood Hemicelluloses: Modeling of Multistage Operation
by Mar López, Valentín Santos and Juan Carlos Parajó
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 337; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030337 - 17 Mar 2020
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2664
Abstract
Eucalyptus globulus wood samples were treated with hot, compressed water (autohydrolysis) in consecutive stages under non-isothermal conditions in order to convert the hemicellulose fraction into soluble compounds through reactions catalyzed by in situ generated acids. The first stage was a conventional autohydrolysis, and [...] Read more.
Eucalyptus globulus wood samples were treated with hot, compressed water (autohydrolysis) in consecutive stages under non-isothermal conditions in order to convert the hemicellulose fraction into soluble compounds through reactions catalyzed by in situ generated acids. The first stage was a conventional autohydrolysis, and liquid phase obtained under conditions leading to an optimal recovery of soluble saccharides was employed in a new reaction (second crossflow stage) using a fresh wood lot, in order to increase the concentrations of soluble saccharides. In the third crossflow stage, the best liquid phase from the second stage was employed to solubilize the hemicelluloses from a fresh wood lot. The concentration profiles determined for the soluble saccharides, acids, and furans present in the liquid phases from the diverse crossflow stages were employed for kinetic modeling, based on pseudohomogeneous reactions and Arrhenius-type dependence of the kinetic coefficients on temperature. Additional characterization of the reaction products by High Pressure Size Exclusion Chromatography, High Performance Anion Exchange Chromatography with Pulsed Amperometric Detection, and Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry provided further insight on the properties of the soluble saccharides present in the various reaction media. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalytic Transformation of Renewables (Olefin, Bio-sourced, et. al))
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18 pages, 6968 KiB  
Article
Effects of Lanthanide Doping on the Catalytic Activity and Hydrothermal Stability of Cu-SAPO-18 for the Catalytic Removal of NOx (NH3-SCR) from Diesel Engines
by Qi Gao, Shuai Han, Qing Ye, Shuiyuan Cheng, Tianfang Kang and Hongxing Dai
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 336; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030336 - 17 Mar 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3273
Abstract
Lanthanide (La, Ce, Nd, Gd, Tb, Ho or Lu)-doped Cu-SAPO-18 samples were prepared using the ion-exchange method. Physicochemical properties of the samples were systematically characterized by a number of analytical techniques, and the effects of lanthanide doping on catalytic activity and hydrothermal stability [...] Read more.
Lanthanide (La, Ce, Nd, Gd, Tb, Ho or Lu)-doped Cu-SAPO-18 samples were prepared using the ion-exchange method. Physicochemical properties of the samples were systematically characterized by a number of analytical techniques, and the effects of lanthanide doping on catalytic activity and hydrothermal stability of the Cu-SAPO-18 catalysts for the NH3-SCR reaction were examined. It is shown that the doping of lanthanide elements could affect the interaction between the active components (copper ions) and the AEI-structured SAPO-18 support. The inclusion of some lanthanides significantly slowed down hydrolysis of the catalyst during hydrothermal aging treatment process, leading to an enhanced catalytic activity at both low and high temperatures and hydrothermal stability. In particular, Ce doping promoted the Cu2+ ions to migrate to the energetically favorable sites for enhancement in catalytic activity, whereas the other lanthanide ions exerted little or an opposite effect on the migration of Cu2+ ions. Additionally, Ce doping could improve hydrothermal stability of the Cu-SAPO-18 catalyst by weakening hydrolysis of the catalyst during the hydrothermal aging treatment process. Ce doping increased the catalytic activity of Cu-SAPO-18 at low and high temperatures, which was attributed to modifications of the redox and/or isolated Cu2+ active centers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis by Silica and Related Materials)
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17 pages, 2775 KiB  
Review
Photocatalytic Reforming for Hydrogen Evolution: A Review
by Yuan Yao, Xinyu Gao, Zizhen Li and Xiangchao Meng
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030335 - 17 Mar 2020
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 8026
Abstract
Hydrogen is considered to be an ideal energy carrier to achieve low-carbon economy and sustainable energy supply. Production of hydrogen by catalytic reforming of organic compounds is one of the most important commercial processes. With the rapid development of photocatalysis in recent years, [...] Read more.
Hydrogen is considered to be an ideal energy carrier to achieve low-carbon economy and sustainable energy supply. Production of hydrogen by catalytic reforming of organic compounds is one of the most important commercial processes. With the rapid development of photocatalysis in recent years, the applications of photocatalysis have been extended to the area of reforming hydrogen evolution. This research area has attracted extensive attention and exhibited potential for wide application in practice. Photocatalytic reforming for hydrogen evolution is a sustainable process to convert the solar energy stored in hydrogen into chemical energy. This review comprehensively summarized the reported works in relevant areas, categorized by the reforming precursor (organic compound) such as methanol, ethanol and biomass. Mechanisms and characteristics for each category were deeply discussed. In addition, recommendations for future work were suggested. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Progression in Photocatalytic Materials for Efficient Performance)
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28 pages, 11534 KiB  
Article
Substitution of Co with Ni in Co/Al2O3 Catalysts for Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
by Michela Martinelli, Sai Charan Karuturi, Richard Garcia, Caleb D. Watson, Wilson D. Shafer, Donald C. Cronauer, A. Jeremy Kropf, Christopher L. Marshall and Gary Jacobs
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 334; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030334 - 17 Mar 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4265
Abstract
The effect of cobalt substitution with nickel was investigated for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis reaction. Catalysts having different Ni/Co ratios were prepared by aqueous incipient wetness co-impregnation, characterized, and tested using a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) for more than 200 h. The addition [...] Read more.
The effect of cobalt substitution with nickel was investigated for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis reaction. Catalysts having different Ni/Co ratios were prepared by aqueous incipient wetness co-impregnation, characterized, and tested using a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) for more than 200 h. The addition of nickel did not significantly modify the morphological properties measured. XRD, STEM, and TPR-XANES results showed intimate contact between nickel and cobalt, strongly suggesting the formation of a Co-Ni solid oxide solution in each case. Moreover, TPR-XANES indicated that nickel addition improves the cobalt reducibility. This may be due to H2 dissociation and spillover, but is more likely the results of a chemical effect of intimate contact between Co and Ni resulting in Co-Ni alloying after activation. FTS testing revealed a lower initial activity when nickel was added. However, CO conversion continuously increased with time on-stream until a steady-state value (34%–37% depending on Ni/Co ratio) was achieved, which was very close to the value observed for undoped Co/Al2O3. This trend suggests nickel can stabilize cobalt nanoparticles even at a lower weight percentage of Co. Currently, the cobalt price is 2.13 times the price of nickel. Thus, comparing the activity/price, the catalyst with a Ni/Co ratio of 25/75 has better performance than the unpromoted catalyst. Finally, nickel-promoted catalysts exhibited slightly higher initial selectivity for light hydrocarbons, but this difference typically diminished with time on-stream; once leveling off in conversion was achieved, the C5+ selectivities were similar (≈ 80%) for Ni/Co ratios up to 10/90, and only slightly lower (≈ 77%) at Ni/Co of 25/75. Full article
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15 pages, 2447 KiB  
Article
Gold-Based Nanoparticles on Amino-Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Supports as Nanozymes for Glucose Oxidation
by M. Carmen Ortega-Liebana, Javier Bonet-Aleta, Jose L. Hueso and Jesus Santamaria
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 333; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030333 - 16 Mar 2020
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7222
Abstract
The transformation of glucose represents a topic of great interest at different levels. In the first place, glucose is currently conceived as a green feedstock for the sustainable production of chemicals. Secondly, the depletion of glucose at the cellular level is currently envisioned [...] Read more.
The transformation of glucose represents a topic of great interest at different levels. In the first place, glucose is currently conceived as a green feedstock for the sustainable production of chemicals. Secondly, the depletion of glucose at the cellular level is currently envisioned as a promising strategy to treat and alter the erratic metabolism of tumoral cells. The use of natural enzymes offers multiple advantages in terms of specificity towards the glucose substrate but may lack sufficient robustness and recyclability beyond the optimal operating conditions of these natural systems. In the present work, we have evaluated the potential use of an inorganic based nanohybrid containing gold nanoparticles supported onto ordered mesoporous supports. We have performed different assays that corroborate the enzyme-mimicking response of these inorganic surrogates towards the selective conversion of glucose into gluconic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, we conclude that these enzyme-like mimicking surrogates can operate at different pH ranges and under mild reaction conditions, can be recycled multiple times and maintain excellent catalytic response in comparison with other gold-based catalysts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art and Future Trends in Nanostructured Biocatalysis)
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17 pages, 3406 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effect in Au-Cu Bimetallic Catalysts for the Valorization of Lignin-Derived Compounds
by Marta Stucchi, Sofia Capelli, Simone Cardaci, Stefano Cattaneo, Andrea Jouve, Andrea Beck, György Sáfrán, Claudio Evangelisti, Alberto Villa and Laura Prati
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030332 - 16 Mar 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3800
Abstract
The selective oxidation of veratryl alcohol as lignin-derived compound was studied under mild conditions, using Au-Cu catalysts synthesized from pre-formed nanoparticles with different Au:Cu molar ratios. Bimetallic catalysts show higher activity compared to monometallic counterparts, highlighting a clear synergistic effect. By comparing the [...] Read more.
The selective oxidation of veratryl alcohol as lignin-derived compound was studied under mild conditions, using Au-Cu catalysts synthesized from pre-formed nanoparticles with different Au:Cu molar ratios. Bimetallic catalysts show higher activity compared to monometallic counterparts, highlighting a clear synergistic effect. By comparing the physico-chemical surface properties of catalysts supported on carbon and Al2O3, we were able to establish a strong support effect, with alumina-based catalysts being more active than carbon-supported ones. Moreover, TEM and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses showed a different composition of nanoparticles (NPs) and metal exposure, and we established that Au is the active phase of the reaction. The co-presence of Au and Cu species, and their different interaction with the support, enabled obtaining more than 70% conversion of veratryl alcohol to veratryl aldehyde as a unique product. Moreover, the Au1Cu1 supported on alumina catalyst was recovered by filtration and reused without significant loss of activity and selectivity up to four times. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heterogeneous Selective and Total Catalytic Oxidation)
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13 pages, 3151 KiB  
Article
Study on Thermal Decomposition Behavior, Gaseous Products, and Kinetic Analysis of Bis-(Dimethylglyoximato) Nickel(II) Complex Using TG-DSC-FTIR-MS Technique
by Ergang Yao, Siyu Xu, Fengqi Zhao, Taizhong Huang, Haijian Li, Ningning Zhao, Jianhua Yi, Yanjing Yang and Changjian Wang
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030331 - 15 Mar 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6069
Abstract
The fiber-like bis-(dimethylglyoximato) nickel(II) complex, Ni(DMG)2 was successfully synthesized. The obtained samples were characterized by SEM-EDS, FT-IR, XRD, and XPS. The TG-DSC-FTIR-MS coupling technique was used to characterize the thermal decomposition behavior and evolved gas analysis of Ni(DMG)2. The non-isothermal [...] Read more.
The fiber-like bis-(dimethylglyoximato) nickel(II) complex, Ni(DMG)2 was successfully synthesized. The obtained samples were characterized by SEM-EDS, FT-IR, XRD, and XPS. The TG-DSC-FTIR-MS coupling technique was used to characterize the thermal decomposition behavior and evolved gas analysis of Ni(DMG)2. The non-isothermal decomposition reaction kinetic parameters were obtained by both combined kinetic analysis and isoconversional Vyazovkin methods. It was found that Ni(DMG)2 begins to decompose at around 280 °C, and a sharp exothermic peak is observed in the DSC curve at about 308.2 °C at a heating rate of 10 °C·min−1. The main gaseous products are H2O, NH3, N2O, CO, and HCN, and the content of H2O is significantly higher than that of the others. The activation energy obtained by the combined kinetic analysis method is 170.61 ± 0.65 kJ·mol−1. The decomposition process can be described by the random nucleation and growth of the nuclei model. However, it was challenging to attempt to evaluate the reaction mechanism precisely by one ideal kinetic model. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Hugo de Lasa)
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12 pages, 23637 KiB  
Article
Polyvinylpyridine-Supported Palladium Nanoparticles: An Efficient Catalyst for Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling Reactions
by Graziano Fusini, Fabio Rizzo, Gaetano Angelici, Emanuela Pitzalis, Claudio Evangelisti and Adriano Carpita
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030330 - 15 Mar 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4463
Abstract
Palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) synthesized by the metal vapor synthesis technique were supported on poly(4-vinylpyridine) 2% cross-linked with divinylbenzene (Pd/PVPy). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of small metal nanoparticles (dm = 2.9 nm) highly dispersed on the PVPy. The Pd/PVPy system [...] Read more.
Palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) synthesized by the metal vapor synthesis technique were supported on poly(4-vinylpyridine) 2% cross-linked with divinylbenzene (Pd/PVPy). Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of small metal nanoparticles (dm = 2.9 nm) highly dispersed on the PVPy. The Pd/PVPy system showed high catalytic efficiency in Suzuki-Miyaura carbon–carbon coupling reactions of both non-activated and deactivated aromatic iodides and bromides with aryl boronic acids, carried out under an air atmosphere. The high turnover of the catalyst and the ability of the PVPy resin to retain active Pd species are highlighted. By comparing the catalytic performances of Pd/PVPy with those observed by using commercially available Pd-based supported catalysts, the reported system showed higher selectivity and lower Pd leaching. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Supported Metal Catalysts and Their Applications in Fine Chemicals)
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21 pages, 2048 KiB  
Review
The “Green” FMOs: Diversity, Functionality and Application of Plant Flavoproteins
by Sara Thodberg and Elizabeth H. Jakobsen Neilson
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 329; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030329 - 14 Mar 2020
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 6581
Abstract
Flavin-dependent monooxygenases (FMOs) are ancient enzymes present in all kingdoms of life. FMOs typically catalyze the incorporation of an oxygen atom from molecular oxygen into small molecules. To date, the majority of functional characterization studies have been performed on mammalian, fungal and bacterial [...] Read more.
Flavin-dependent monooxygenases (FMOs) are ancient enzymes present in all kingdoms of life. FMOs typically catalyze the incorporation of an oxygen atom from molecular oxygen into small molecules. To date, the majority of functional characterization studies have been performed on mammalian, fungal and bacterial FMOs, showing that they play fundamental roles in drug and xenobiotic metabolism. By contrast, our understanding of FMOs across the plant kingdom is very limited, despite plants possessing far greater FMO diversity compared to both bacteria and other multicellular organisms. Here, we review the progress of plant FMO research, with a focus on FMO diversity and functionality. Significantly, of the FMOs characterized to date, they all perform oxygenation reactions that are crucial steps within hormone metabolism, pathogen resistance, signaling and chemical defense. This demonstrates the fundamental role FMOs have within plant metabolism, and presents significant opportunities for future research pursuits and downstream applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavin Monooxygenases)
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16 pages, 3771 KiB  
Article
Catalytic Oxidation of HCHO over the Sodium-Treated Sepiolite-Supported Rare Earth (La, Eu, Dy, and Tm) Oxide Catalysts
by Ning Dong, Qing Ye, Mengyue Chen, Shuiyuan Cheng, Tianfang Kang and Hongxing Dai
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 328; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030328 - 14 Mar 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2778
Abstract
The sodium-treated sepiolite (NaSep)-supported rare earth oxide (RE/NaSep; RE = La, Eu, Dy, and Tm) samples were prepared using the rotary evaporation method. Physicochemical properties of these materials were characterized by XRD, SEM, BET, FTIR, XPS, H2–TPR, NH3–TPD, and [...] Read more.
The sodium-treated sepiolite (NaSep)-supported rare earth oxide (RE/NaSep; RE = La, Eu, Dy, and Tm) samples were prepared using the rotary evaporation method. Physicochemical properties of these materials were characterized by XRD, SEM, BET, FTIR, XPS, H2–TPR, NH3–TPD, and in situ DRIFTS, and their catalytic activities for formaldehyde (HCHO) (2000 ppm) oxidation were evaluated. The results show that loading of the rare earth oxide on NaSep improved its catalytic performance. Among all the samples, Eu/NaSep performed the best, and complete HCHO conversion was achieved at a temperature of 150 °C and a gas hourly space velocity of 240,000 mL/(g h); a good catalytic activity was still maintained after 45 h of stability test. The catalytic oxidation mechanism of HCHO was studied using the in situ DRIFTS technique. As a result, the effective and stable catalytic performance of the Eu/NaSep sample was mainly due to the presence of hydroxyl groups on the sepiolite surface and the doped rare earth oxides, which contributed to its high performance. HCHO oxidation underwent via the steps of HCHO + O2 → HCOO + OH → H2O + CO2. It is concluded that the optimal catalytic activity of Eu/NaSep was associated with the highest Oads/Olatt atomic ratio, the largest amount of hydroxyl groups, the highest acidity, and the best reducibility. The present work may provide new insights into the application in the removal of high-concentration HCHO over the rare earth oxides supported on natural low-cost clays. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Catalytic Materials)
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13 pages, 3916 KiB  
Article
Levulinic Acid Production from Delignified Rice Husk Waste over Manganese Catalysts: Heterogeneous Versus Homogeneous
by Arnia Putri Pratama, Dyah Utami Cahyaning Rahayu and Yuni Krisyuningsih Krisnandi
Catalysts 2020, 10(3), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10030327 - 14 Mar 2020
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4094
Abstract
Delignified rice husk waste (25.66% (wt) cellulose) was converted to levulinic acid using three types of manganese catalysts, i.e., the Mn3O4/hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite and Mn3O4 heterogenous catalysts, as well as Mn(II) ion homogeneous counterpart. The hierarchical [...] Read more.
Delignified rice husk waste (25.66% (wt) cellulose) was converted to levulinic acid using three types of manganese catalysts, i.e., the Mn3O4/hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite and Mn3O4 heterogenous catalysts, as well as Mn(II) ion homogeneous counterpart. The hierarchical ZSM-5 zeolite was prepared using the double template method and modified with Mn3O4 through wet-impregnation method. The structure and physicochemical properties of the catalyst materials were determined using several solid-state characterization techniques. The reaction was conducted in a 200 mL-three neck-round bottom flask at 100 °C and 130 °C for a certain reaction time in the presence of 10% (v/v) phosphoric acid and 2% (v/v) H2O2 aqueous solution, and the product was analyzed using HPLC. In general, 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (5-HMF) as the intermediate product was produced after 2 h and decreased after 4 h reaction time. To conclude, the Mn3O4/hierarchical ZSM-5 heterogenous catalyst gave the highest yield (wt %) of levulinic acid (39.75% and 27.60%, respectively) as the main product, after 8 h reaction time. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis in Lignocellulosic Biomass Conversion)
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