Advanced 3D printing strategies for designer catalysts applied to biomass conversion

Developing versatile and robust catalytic systems applicable to multiple biomass feedstocks is one of the key challenges in biomass conversion for the future and the aim of this proposal project, that will contribute to the objectives of Horizon Europe Misson regarding the Circular economy and bioeconomy sectors. Due to the advandages of 3D-printing compared to traditional manufacturing technologies, the heterogeneous catalyst will be synthetised by 3D printing process will involve the use both of biopolymer (chitosan) combined with polylactic acid and of metals (Ru, Au, Pt and Fe). The synthesis of these materials will be monitored by a number of external (ex-situ) characterization techniques including XRD, SEM- and EDX mapping, BET surface area, TEM, XPS, DRIFTs, DRUV, TPD/TPR and surface acid/base group analysis. The conversion of lignocellulosic materials to high added value chemicals and biofuel precursors such as furans, levulinates, γ-valerolactone and valeric esters over 3D printed heterogeneous catalysts will be carry out in autoclave and/or microwave conditions. Optimized reaction conditions in batch (autoclave conditions and/or microwave conditions) will be translated into a continuous flow process using some of our ´in-house´ equipment, in the liquid phase (Phoenix reactor). The aim of these experiments is not only to test the potential scalability of the process, but most importantly, the long-term stability of the catalysts under the present conditions. On the other, this project will have a high impact on human resource development of the host institution by accumulating knowledge and expertise, results and experience in the multidisciplinary field, consolidating, thus, the reserch team in an area that becomes a necessity for increasing the chance to access European funding.