Reductive defunctionalization of biomass-derived polyols and lignin models using environmentally friendly silane reductants and a new and stable boron-based catalyst

There is a need for alternative and renewable methods to produce liquid fuels and commodity chemicals and decrease the world’s dependence on fossil resources. In this regard, the modification of simple, non-food (plant) biomass-derived chemicals is an important goal towards providing a sustainable access to high-energy molecules as potential fuels and other starting materials for the synthesis of drugs, agrochemicals, and other high-value commodity chemicals. The objective of this project is to apply and optimize a novel stable catalyst developed in the Hall Laboratory towards the breakdown of biomass-derived polyols like monosaccharides and lignin models, and evaluate its reactivity and selectivity to afford value-added chemicals under various reaction parameters. In particular, to maximize atom-economy, we will aim to optimize the reductive deoxygenation of unprotected monosaccharides. Hand in hand with this optimization, with the Oestreich Laboratory we will study the potential mechanism of action of any transformation that provides product in acceptable yield and selectivities, which will guide future improvements. This collaboration exploits recent fundamental discoveries towards applications of great importance to Canada and Germany.

Faculty Supervisor:

Dennis Hall

Student:

Partner:

Technische Universität Berlin

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Green/Alternative Energy; Sustainability & the Environment; Manufacturing and Construction

University:

University of Alberta

Program: