The Heterogeneous Catalytic Wet Peroxide Oxidation of Lignin for Value addedChemicals and Renewable Energy

Bio-fuels derived from biomass can supply a proportion of energy consumption in Canada and can
reduce our dependence on the availability of fossil-fuels which is depleting. This research is proposed
10 convert wasle biomass into value-added products, such as fuels and chemicals species. This
research proposes to utilize Fenton-type reactions to convert lignin under ambient conditions into
valuable chemicals as the intennediates for generating renewable energy, and food ingredients. The
adopted method is an oxidation reaction triggered by hydrogen peroxide in an aqueous solution and
the reaction is assisted by various heterogeneous catalysts (Catalytic Wet Peroxide Oxidation,
CWPO). The product distribution of CWPO will be identified and quantified using chromatography
techniques to elucidate the details of reaction paths. The ultimate goal of this project is to generate a
reaction protocol that illustrates optimal reaction conditions of the desired products. The outcome
will greatly benefit Canadian renewable energy and food sectors.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chil-Hung Cheng

Student:

Partner:

Hydro One

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

University:

Toronto Metropolitan University

Program:

Accelerate