Heterogeneous Catalysis for the Production of Biofuels and Biochemicals

Dear Colleagues,

Biomass, as a plant resource composed of organic carbon, is widely available, with high annual production, and has low contents of nitrogen and sulfur. The preparation of biofuels and biochemicals from biomass not only save limited fossil fuels but also play a positive role in reducing environmental pollution. From biomass, a variety of gaseous biofuels can be produced, such as hydrogen, methane, and syngas. Examples of aqueous biofuels are ethanol, bio-oil, bio-jet fuel, and bio-diesel. Currently, researchers have conducted extensive research in alternative chemicals, including furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural derived from cellulose, as well as phenol derived from lignin, and even biochar. These alternative fuels and chemical precursors have a wider range of applications in the fields of transportation, commercial industries, and consumer-based platform chemicals.

Heterogeneous catalysts refer to catalysts that are in a different phase state from the reactant in the reaction, which are usually not soluble in water and easy to recover and reuse. They have the advantage of being easily removed by filtration at the end of the reaction. The reaction product is often uncontaminated with a ligand or transition metals. Thus, they can be used in the next reaction. Catalyst regeneration could typically be required before reuse. Moreover, the cost of catalyst regeneration and recovery decreases the overall process of capital expenditure.

We invite authors to submit original research papers focused on the catalysis of biofuel and biochemical generation from biomass, as well as the synthesis and characterization of novel heterogeneous catalysts. Particular interest will be given to papers that explore the reaction mechanism of novel heterogenous catalysts in biofuels and biochemicals.

Dr. Yi Wei
Guest Editor

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