Direct conversion of cellulose to sorbitol over ruthenium catalysts: Influence of the support

Abstract

Ruthenium-based catalysts were prepared by incipient wetness impregnation of different supports and characterized by TPR, TEM, ICP and N-2 adsorption at -196 degrees C. The catalytic performances of the catalysts were evaluated in the hydrolytic hydrogenation of cellulose. The prepared catalysts were highly efficient, allowing conversions of cellulose higher than 75% after 5 h of reaction. The highest selectivity to sorbitol (over 60%) was reached when using carbon nanotubes (CNT) as support. Moreover, if this catalyst was ball-milled together with cellulose, that selectivity to sorbitol could be achieved in only 1 h of reaction and with complete conversion of cellulose.