Development of heterogeneous photocatalysts for the solar energy mediated transformation of biomass into hydrocarbon fuel.

In general, generation of formic acid is highly advantageous due to its hydrogen storage capability. It should be noted that efficient storage of H2 gas is a big challenge to implement hydrogen economy. Considering the kinetic stability at room temperature and of high hydrogen content in formic acid, it is an alternative solution. In fact, use of formic acid is very atom efficient since 100% of the stored hydrogen is available for catalytic storage. It is obvious that formic acid can be generated in many possible ways. For example by the hydrogenation of CO2 or photocatalytic conversion of CO2 etc. However, these methods are far away from reaching the practical target. In contrast, use of biomass as a source of formic acid is considered as the future target due to their wide availability and as a cheap resource. In fact, biomass accounts for over 10% of global primary energy supply and is the world's fourth largest source of energy (following oil, coal, and natural gas). Based on this information, we aim to develop novel heterogeneous photocatalysts for biomass conversion. It should be noted that photocatalysis are well-known for its excellent properties such as cleanliness and energy savings. Furthermore, our previous experience with biomass valorization, CO2-based chemistry and different aspects of photocatalysis will be helpful to earn success through this novel and powerful strategy. Additionally, the PhD student (who will work in this project) is well aware about photocatalysis, biomass conversion, catalytic transformations and has already published/submitted two articles in photocatalysis.

Keywords:IN SITU SPECTROSCOPY

Disciplines:Catalysis