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Catalysts, Volume 7, Issue 6 (June 2017) – 26 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): From molecular recognition and self-organization, novel catalytic supramolecular systems have emerged. Weak interactions proved to be effective to access novel self-assembled catalysts able to adjust their three-dimensional structure to provide good complementarity to the transition state, thus contributing to the chemo-, regio-, and stereoselectivity of the reaction. This short review is focused on cyclodextrin-based, self-assembly-driven catalytic processes taking place in water in the presence of organometallic catalysts. Emphasis is on cyclodextrin-based self-assembled organometallic catalysts, micellar aggregates, and host–guest catalysis developed during the past 10 years. View the paper
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1180 KiB  
Article
l-Amino Acid Production by a Immobilized Double-Racemase Hydantoinase Process: Improvement and Comparison with a Free Protein System
by María José Rodríguez-Alonso, Felipe Rodríguez-Vico, Francisco Javier Las Heras-Vázquez and Josefa María Clemente-Jiménez
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060192 - 20 Jun 2017
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5799
Abstract
Protein immobilization is proving to be an environmentally friendly strategy for manufacturing biochemicals at high yields and low production costs. This work describes the optimization of the so-called “double-racemase hydantoinase process,” a system of four enzymes used to produce optically pure l-amino [...] Read more.
Protein immobilization is proving to be an environmentally friendly strategy for manufacturing biochemicals at high yields and low production costs. This work describes the optimization of the so-called “double-racemase hydantoinase process,” a system of four enzymes used to produce optically pure l-amino acids from a racemic mixture of hydantoins. The four proteins were immobilized separately, and, based on their specific activity, the optimal whole relation was determined. The first enzyme, d,l-hydantoinase, preferably hydrolyzes d-hydantoins from d,l-hydantoins to N-carbamoyl-d-amino acids. The remaining l-hydantoins are racemized by the second enzyme, hydantoin racemase, and continue supplying substrate d-hydantoins to the first enzyme. N-carbamoyl-d-amino acid is racemized in turn to N-carbamoyl-l-amino acid by the third enzyme, carbamoyl racemase. Finally, the N-carbamoyl-l-amino acid is transformed to l-amino acid by the fourth enzyme, l-carbamoylase. Therefore, the product of one enzyme is the substrate of another. Perfect coordination of the four activities is necessary to avoid the accumulation of reaction intermediates and to achieve an adequate rate for commercial purposes. The system has shown a broad pH optimum of 7–9, with a maximum activity at 8 and an optimal temperature of 60 °C. Comparison of the immobilized system with the free protein system showed that the reaction velocity increased for the production of norvaline, norleucine, ABA, and homophenylalanine, while it decreased for l-valine and remained unchanged for l-methionine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalysis and Biotransformations)
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1340 KiB  
Article
A Theoretical Insight into Enhanced Catalytic Activity of Au by Multiple Twin Nanoparticles
by Kyoichi Sawabe, Taiki Koketsu, Junya Ohyama and Atsushi Satsuma
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060191 - 19 Jun 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4200
Abstract
Recently, it has been reported that the morphology of Au nanoparticles (NPs) affects the catalytic activity of CO oxidation; twin crystal NPs show higher activity for CO oxidation than single-crystal NPs. In this study, density functional calculations have been carried out to investigate [...] Read more.
Recently, it has been reported that the morphology of Au nanoparticles (NPs) affects the catalytic activity of CO oxidation; twin crystal NPs show higher activity for CO oxidation than single-crystal NPs. In this study, density functional calculations have been carried out to investigate the morphology effect of Au NPs using CO as a probe molecule. In the case of Au NPs with a size of more than 2 nm, CO adsorption energy on the Au NPs is mainly determined by a coordination number (CN) of adsorption sites. CO binding to a multiple twin NP with a size of about 1 nm is stronger than that on a single-crystal NP with the same size. A simple CN explanation cannot be applied to the enhancement of CO binding to the small multiple twin NP. This enhancement is related to a deformation of the NP structure before and after CO adsorption. It is suggested that the multiple twin NP with a size of less than 1 nm, which shows the deformation upon CO adsorption, contributes to the higher activity for CO oxidation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Methods and Their Application in Catalysis)
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456 KiB  
Review
Zirconium Phosphate Catalysts in the XXI Century: State of the Art from 2010 to Date
by Monica Pica
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060190 - 19 Jun 2017
Cited by 51 | Viewed by 7408
Abstract
An overview on the developments of zirconium phosphate (ZrP) and its organic derivatives in heterogeneous catalysis in recent years is reported in the present review. Two basic aspects have been emphasized: first, the catalytic properties of zirconium phosphates were discussed, with particular attention [...] Read more.
An overview on the developments of zirconium phosphate (ZrP) and its organic derivatives in heterogeneous catalysis in recent years is reported in the present review. Two basic aspects have been emphasized: first, the catalytic properties of zirconium phosphates were discussed, with particular attention to the effect of surface acidity and hydrophobic/hydrophilic character, textural properties, and particle morphology on the catalytic performances. Then, the use of zirconium phosphates as support for catalytic active species was reported, including organometallic complexes, metal ions, noble metal, and metal oxide nanoparticles. Zirconium phosphate plays, in those cases, a dual role, since it promotes the dispersion and stabilization of the catalysts, thanks to their interaction with the active sites on the surface of ZrP, and facilitates the recovery and reuse of the catalytic species due to their immobilization on the solid support. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zirconium Phosphate Catalysts)
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9065 KiB  
Article
Co3O4 Nanoparticle-Decorated N-Doped Mesoporous Carbon Nanofibers as an Efficient Catalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
by Hairong Xue, Tao Wang, Hao Gong, Hu Guo, Xiaoli Fan, Li Song, Wei Xia, Yaya Feng and Jianping He
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060189 - 15 Jun 2017
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6194
Abstract
A low cost, durable, and efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) is essential for high-performance fuel cells. Here, we fabricated Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) anchored on N-doped mesoporous carbon nanofibers (Co3O4/NMCF) by electrospinning combined with the [...] Read more.
A low cost, durable, and efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) is essential for high-performance fuel cells. Here, we fabricated Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) anchored on N-doped mesoporous carbon nanofibers (Co3O4/NMCF) by electrospinning combined with the simple heat treatment. Within this composite, carbon nanofibers possess a mesoporous structure, contributed to obtain a high surface area, which can facilitate the infiltration of electrolyte. Moreover, this one-dimensional (1D) carbon nanofiber also acts as a 1D conductive channel, effectively improving the transmission of electrons. In addition, the doping of the N element with high content combined with homogenously distributed Co3O4 NPs can significantly enhance the ORR electrocatalytic activity. Benefiting from the advantages of material and structure, the Co3O4/NMCF catalyst favors a four electron transfer process in alkaline media, exhibiting good ORR electrocatalytic activity, and its durability is much better than that of commercial Pt/C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mesostructured Materials and Their Catalytic Applications)
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3896 KiB  
Article
Using Laccases in the Nanoflower to Synthesize Viniferin
by Zhuofu Wu, Heng Li, XueJun Zhu, Shuai Li, Zhi Wang, Lei Wang, Zhengqiang Li and Guang Chen
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060188 - 12 Jun 2017
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5406
Abstract
The laccase-incorporated nanoflower was fabricated and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). SEM images indicate that the laccase-incorporated nanoflower has a high surface area, which may facilitate the mass transfer of the substrate and the product. FTIR [...] Read more.
The laccase-incorporated nanoflower was fabricated and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). SEM images indicate that the laccase-incorporated nanoflower has a high surface area, which may facilitate the mass transfer of the substrate and the product. FTIR spectrums identify the existence of laccase in the nanoflowers. The novel immobilized laccase was used for the synthesis of viniferin. The reaction conditions had been optimized and the laccase-incorporated nanoflower can show its maximum specific activity (16.3 µmol/g/h) under the optimal reaction conditions. The specific activity of the laccase in the nanoflowers is enhanced about 2.2-fold compared with free laccase in solution without copper (II) ions. Furthermore, the laccase in the nanoflowers shows an increase in specific activity of ~180% compared with free laccase in a solution containing high concentrations (similar to the concentration in the flower) of copper (II) ions. The results also indicate that the laccase in the nanoflowers retain 93.2% of its initial specific activity even after ten continuous batches. Full article
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2001 KiB  
Review
Potential of Pervaporation and Vapor Separation with Water Selective Membranes for an Optimized Production of Biofuels—A Review
by Catia Cannilla, Giuseppe Bonura and Francesco Frusteri
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060187 - 09 Jun 2017
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 9547
Abstract
The development of processes based on the integration of new technologies is of growing interest to industrial catalysis. Recently, significant efforts have been focused on the design of catalytic membrane reactors to improve process performance. In particular, the use of membranes, that allow [...] Read more.
The development of processes based on the integration of new technologies is of growing interest to industrial catalysis. Recently, significant efforts have been focused on the design of catalytic membrane reactors to improve process performance. In particular, the use of membranes, that allow a selective permeation of water from the reaction mixture, positively affects the reaction evolution by improving conversion for all reactions thermodynamically or kinetically limited by the presence of water. In this paper, how pervaporation (PV) and vapor permeation (VP) technologies can improve the catalytic performance of reactions of industrial interest is considered. Specifically, technological approaches proposed in the literature are discussed with the aim of highlighting advantages and problems encountered in order to address research towards the optimization of membrane reactor configurations for liquid biofuel production in large scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis in Membrane Reactors)
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12773 KiB  
Article
Immobilized Palladium Nanoparticles on Zirconium Carboxy-Aminophosphonates Nanosheets as an Efficient Recoverable Heterogeneous Catalyst for Suzuki–Miyaura and Heck Coupling
by Vadym Kozell, Tommaso Giannoni, Morena Nocchetti, Riccardo Vivani, Oriana Piermatti and Luigi Vaccaro
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060186 - 09 Jun 2017
Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5335
Abstract
Zirconium phosphate glycine diphosphonate nanosheets (ZPGly) have been used as support for the preparation of solid palladium nanoparticles, namely Pd@ZPGly. Thanks to the presence of carboxy-aminophosponate groups on the layer surface, ZPGly-based materials were able to stabilize a high amount of palladium (up [...] Read more.
Zirconium phosphate glycine diphosphonate nanosheets (ZPGly) have been used as support for the preparation of solid palladium nanoparticles, namely Pd@ZPGly. Thanks to the presence of carboxy-aminophosponate groups on the layer surface, ZPGly-based materials were able to stabilize a high amount of palladium (up to 22 wt %) also minimizing the amount of metal leached in the final products of representative important cross-coupling processes selected for proving the catalysts’ efficiency. The catalytic systems have been fully characterized and used in low amounts (0.1 mol %) in the Suzuki–Miyaura and Heck cross-couplings. Moreover, the protocols were optimized for the use of recoverable azeotropic mixtures (aq. EtOH 96% or aq. CH3CN 84%, respectively) and in the flow procedure allowing one to isolate the final pure products, without any purification step, with very low residual palladium content and with a very low waste production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zirconium Phosphate Catalysts)
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1285 KiB  
Communication
Lipase-Catalyzed Synthesis of Indolyl 4H-Chromenes via a Multicomponent Reaction in Ionic Liquid
by Weian Zhang, Ziyuan Zhao, Zhi Wang, Chao Guo, Chunyu Wang, Rui Zhao and Lei Wang
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060185 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4611
Abstract
Synthesis of indolyl 4H-chromenes via a three-component reaction catalyzed by lipase in ionic liquidsis reported here for the first time. High yields (77–98%) were obtained when Mucor miehei lipase was used as the catalyst in [EMIM][BF4]. Furthermore, [EMIM][BF4] exhibited [...] Read more.
Synthesis of indolyl 4H-chromenes via a three-component reaction catalyzed by lipase in ionic liquidsis reported here for the first time. High yields (77–98%) were obtained when Mucor miehei lipase was used as the catalyst in [EMIM][BF4]. Furthermore, [EMIM][BF4] exhibited good reusability in this enzymatic reaction. This study affords a new example of lipase catalytic promiscuity and broadens the application range of ionic liquid in biocatalysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Organocatalysis in Ionic Liquids)
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6456 KiB  
Article
Catalytic Acetalization: An Efficient Strategy for High-Value Utilization of Biodiesel-Derived Glycerol
by Suqun Sun, Min He, Yuanwei Dai, Xin Li, Zhijun Liu and Li Yao
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060184 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3866
Abstract
In this study, an efficient process for high value utilization of biodiesel-derived glycerol was proposed via a simple reaction of acetalization catalyzed by novel catalysts of ester sulfate-functionalized ionic liquids (ILs). The relationship between the IL structure and its catalytic activity was investigated. [...] Read more.
In this study, an efficient process for high value utilization of biodiesel-derived glycerol was proposed via a simple reaction of acetalization catalyzed by novel catalysts of ester sulfate-functionalized ionic liquids (ILs). The relationship between the IL structure and its catalytic activity was investigated. The effects of reaction conditions, and the substrate adaptability, were also carefully studied. The results demonstrate that ester sulfate-functionalized IL shows excellent catalytic activity on the acetalization of glycerol with aldehyde (ketone). Under the optimized condition, 87% glycerol conversion was obtained with 99% acetal selectivity when glycerol was condensed with cyclohexanone. In particular, 29% of product consists of six-membered compound, an important fine chemical and an excellent precursor in organic chemistry, because of the significant steric-hindrance effect of IL catalyst. Furthermore, the IL catalyst shows good recyclability where insignificant activity loss was exhibited even after six runs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Glycerol Conversion by Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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2530 KiB  
Review
Review on Copper and Palladium Based Catalysts for Methanol Steam Reforming to Produce Hydrogen
by Xinhai Xu, Kaipeng Shuai and Ben Xu
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060183 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 91 | Viewed by 11938
Abstract
Methanol steam reforming is a promising technology for producing hydrogen for onboard fuel cell applications. The methanol conversion rate and the contents of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in the reformate, significantly depend on the reforming catalyst. Copper-based catalysts and palladium-based catalysts [...] Read more.
Methanol steam reforming is a promising technology for producing hydrogen for onboard fuel cell applications. The methanol conversion rate and the contents of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in the reformate, significantly depend on the reforming catalyst. Copper-based catalysts and palladium-based catalysts can effectively convert methanol into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Copper and palladium-based catalysts with different formulations and compositions have been thoroughly investigated in the literature. This work summarized the development of the two groups of catalysts for methanol steam reforming. Interactions between the activity components and the supports as well as the effects of different promoters were discussed. Compositional and morphological characteristics, along with the methanol steam reforming performances of different Cu/ZnO and Pd/ZnO catalysts promoted by Al2O3, CeO2, ZrO2 or other metal oxides, were reviewed and compared. Moreover, the reaction mechanism of methanol steam reforming over the copper based and palladium based catalysts were discussed. Full article
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1414 KiB  
Article
Insights into the Metal Salt Catalyzed 5-Ethoxymethylfurfural Synthesis from Carbohydrates
by Xin Yu, Xueying Gao, Ruili Tao and Lincai Peng
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060182 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5331
Abstract
The use of common metal salts as catalysts for 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) synthesis from carbohydrate transformation was performed. Initial screening suggested AlCl3 as an efficient catalyst for EMF synthesis (45.0%) from fructose at 140 °C. Interestingly, CuSO4 and Fe2(SO4)3 were found to yield comparable [...] Read more.
The use of common metal salts as catalysts for 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) synthesis from carbohydrate transformation was performed. Initial screening suggested AlCl3 as an efficient catalyst for EMF synthesis (45.0%) from fructose at 140 °C. Interestingly, CuSO4 and Fe2(SO4)3 were found to yield comparable EMF at lower temperature of 110 to 120 °C, and high yields of ethyl levulinate (65.4–71.8%) were obtained at 150 °C. However, these sulfate salts were inactive in EMF synthesis from glucose and the major product was ethyl glucoside with around 80% yield, whereas EMF of 15.2% yield could be produced from glucose using CrCl3. The conversion of sucrose followed the accumulation of the reaction pathways of fructose and glucose, and a moderate yield of EMF could be achieved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis of Biomass-Derived Molecules)
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3570 KiB  
Article
Effect of Ce/Y Addition on Low-Temperature SCR Activity and SO2 and H2O Resistance of MnOx/ZrO2/MWCNTs Catalysts
by Lifu Dong, Yinming Fan, Wei Ling, Chao Yang and Bichun Huang
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060181 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4984
Abstract
The effects of SO2 and H2O on the low-temperature selective catalytic reduction (SCR) activity over MnOx/ZrO2/MWCNTs and MnOx/ZrO2/MWCNTs catalysts modified by Ce or Y was studied. MnCeZr and MnYZr catalysts reached nearly [...] Read more.
The effects of SO2 and H2O on the low-temperature selective catalytic reduction (SCR) activity over MnOx/ZrO2/MWCNTs and MnOx/ZrO2/MWCNTs catalysts modified by Ce or Y was studied. MnCeZr and MnYZr catalysts reached nearly 100% and 93.9% NOx conversions at 200 °C and 240 °C, respectively. They displayed a better SO2 tolerance, and the effect of H2O was negligible. The structural properties of the catalysts were characterized by XRD, H2-TPR, XPS, and FTIR before and after the reaction. The results showed that Ce could increase the mobility of the oxygen and improve the valence and the oxidizability of manganese, while the effect of Y was the opposite. This might be the main reason why the catalytic activity of MnCeZr was better than MnYZr in the presence or absence of SO2 and H2O. Doping Ce or Y broadened the active temperature window. Ce or Y, which existed in the catalysts with a high dispersion or at the amorphous state, preferred to react with SO2 to form sulfate species, and protected the manganese active sites from combing with SO2 to some extent, which coincided with the theory of ionic polarization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Applications in Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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3113 KiB  
Article
Preparation of ZnO-Loaded Lignin-Based Carbon Fiber for the Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Hydroquinone
by Yuexing Wei, Min Song, Lei Yu and Xinhong Tang
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060180 - 08 Jun 2017
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5414
Abstract
To improve the hydroquinone (HQ) determination limit in wastewater and contribute to the comprehensive utilization of lignin, a zinc oxide-loaded lignin-based carbon fiber (ZCF) was prepared by a combination of electrospinning and thermal treatment processes, and was applied in electrocatalytic oxidation of HQ [...] Read more.
To improve the hydroquinone (HQ) determination limit in wastewater and contribute to the comprehensive utilization of lignin, a zinc oxide-loaded lignin-based carbon fiber (ZCF) was prepared by a combination of electrospinning and thermal treatment processes, and was applied in electrocatalytic oxidation of HQ using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The characterization of composites was conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The CV curves demonstrate that a ZCF-modified electrode can efficiently enhance the electrochemical signal and provide a fast response to HQ with a linear range from 1 × 10−6 to 5 × 10−3 mol/L and a determination limit of 2.5 × 10−7 M. Compared with modification materials reported in other literature, it performs excellent. In addition, the effect of the scan rate and the stability of modified materials were also investigated to illustrate the electrochemical behavior on HQ determination. Under optimum conditions, the ZCF-modified electrode was also used for the simultaneous determination of HQ, catechol (CC), and resorcinol (RS), which could well separate the oxidation peaks of the three isomers. Full article
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846 KiB  
Article
Conversion of Furans by Baeyer-Villiger Monooxygenases
by Hemant Kumar and Marco W. Fraaije
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060179 - 07 Jun 2017
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5814
Abstract
Various furans are considered as valuable platform chemicals as they can be derived from plant biomass. Yet, for their exploitation, follow-up chemistry is required. Here we demonstrate that Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) can be used as biocatalysts for the selective oxidation of several furans, [...] Read more.
Various furans are considered as valuable platform chemicals as they can be derived from plant biomass. Yet, for their exploitation, follow-up chemistry is required. Here we demonstrate that Baeyer-Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) can be used as biocatalysts for the selective oxidation of several furans, including 5-(hydroxymethyl) furfural (HMF) and furfural. A total of 15 different BVMOs were tested for their activity on furfural, which revealed that most of the biocatalysts were active on this aromatic aldehyde. Phenylacetone monooxygenase (PAMO) and a mutant thereof (PAMOM446G) were selected for studying their biocatalytic potential in converting furfural and some other furans. While BVMOs are usually known to form an ester or lactone as a ‘normal’ product by inserting an oxygen atom adjacent to the carbonyl carbon of the substrate, our results reveal that both biocatalysts produce furanoid acids as the main product from the corresponding aldehydes. Altogether, our study shows that BVMOs can be employed for the selective oxidation of furans. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocatalysis and Biotransformations)
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7105 KiB  
Article
Immobilization of Lipases on Magnetic Collagen Fibers and Its Applications for Short-Chain Ester Synthesis
by Shengsheng He, Dewei Song, Min Chen and Haiming Cheng
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060178 - 07 Jun 2017
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3719
Abstract
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNp) Fe3O4 were prepared by chemical coprecipitation, and introduced onto collagen fibers to form magnetic collagen support (MNp-Col) for enzyme immobilization. Candida rugosa lipase has been successfully immobilized on MNp-Col supports by a covalent bond cross-linking agent, glutaraldehyde. [...] Read more.
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNp) Fe3O4 were prepared by chemical coprecipitation, and introduced onto collagen fibers to form magnetic collagen support (MNp-Col) for enzyme immobilization. Candida rugosa lipase has been successfully immobilized on MNp-Col supports by a covalent bond cross-linking agent, glutaraldehyde. The characteristics of MNp-Col and the immobilized lipase were investigated. The immobilized lipase displayed sound magnetic separation abilities in both aqueous and organic media. The activity of the immobilized lipase reached 2390 U/g under optimal conditions. The MNp-Col immobilized lipase shows broadened temperature and pH ranges for hydrolysis of olive oil emulsion. For synthesis of butyrate esters in an n-hexane medium, the yield changes through use of different alcohols, among which, butyric butyrate showed the highest yield. The prepared magnetic collagen fiber provides separation support for enzyme immobilization and has the potential to be used in other biotechnology fields. Full article
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14348 KiB  
Article
A Reusable Palladium/Cationic 2,2′-Bipyridyl System-Catalyzed Double Mizoroki-Heck Reaction in Water
by Yu-Chi Chen, Chien-Chi Wu, Wei-Ting Liao, Ling-Jun Liu and Fu-Yu Tsai
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060177 - 02 Jun 2017
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3483
Abstract
A reusable PdCl2(NH3)2/cationic 2,2′-bipyridyl system was used to catalyze the double Mizoroki-Heck reaction of aryl iodides with electron-deficient alkenes in water in the absence of inert gas, giving β,β-diarylated carbonyl derivatives in good to excellent yields. The [...] Read more.
A reusable PdCl2(NH3)2/cationic 2,2′-bipyridyl system was used to catalyze the double Mizoroki-Heck reaction of aryl iodides with electron-deficient alkenes in water in the absence of inert gas, giving β,β-diarylated carbonyl derivatives in good to excellent yields. The formation of unsymmetrical β,β-diarylated alkenes were also studied by coupling aryl iodides with the corresponding aryl-substituted α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds. This water-soluble catalyst can be swiftly separated from the organic layer using simple extraction for the further reuse, and, thus, makes it an operationally-simple and environmentally-benign procedure. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis in Innovative Solvents)
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3949 KiB  
Article
Zirconium Phosphate Heterostructures as Catalyst Support in Hydrodeoxygenation Reactions
by Daniel Ballesteros-Plata, Antonia Infantes-Molina, Elena Rodríguez-Aguado, Pilar Braos-García, José Jiménez-Jiménez and Enrique Rodríguez-Castellón
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060176 - 02 Jun 2017
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4299
Abstract
A porous phosphate heterostructure (PPHs) formed by a layered zirconium(IV) phosphate expanded with silica galleries was prepared presenting a P/Zr molar ratio equal to 2 and a (Si + Zr)/P ratio equal to 3. This pillared zirconium phosphate heterostructure was used as a [...] Read more.
A porous phosphate heterostructure (PPHs) formed by a layered zirconium(IV) phosphate expanded with silica galleries was prepared presenting a P/Zr molar ratio equal to 2 and a (Si + Zr)/P ratio equal to 3. This pillared zirconium phosphate heterostructure was used as a catalyst support for bi-functional catalysts based on noble metals (Pt or Pd) and molybdenum oxide containing a total metallic loading of 2 wt % and Pt(Pd)/Mo molar ratio equal to 1. The catalysts prepared were characterized by different experimental techniques and evaluated in the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) reaction of dibenzofuran (DBF) as a model compound present in biomass derived bio-oil, at different reaction pressures. The catalyst characterization evidenced that a high dispersion of the active phase can be achieved by using these materials, as observed from transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization, where the presence of small particles in the nanometric scale is noticeable. Moreover, the textural and acidic properties of the phosphate heterostructure are barely affected by the incorporation of metals into its structure. Characterization results evidenced that the presented material is a good candidate to be used as a material support. In both cases, high conversions and high selectivities to deoxygenated compounds were achieved and the active phase played an important role. Thus, Pt/Mo presented a better hydrogenolysis capability, being more selective to O-free products; whereas, Pd/Mo showed a greater hydrogenation ability being more affected by changes in pressure conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zirconium Phosphate Catalysts)
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4823 KiB  
Article
Carbon-Modified Mesoporous Anatase/TiO2(B) Whisker for Enhanced Activity in Direct Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide by Palladium
by Rui Tu, Licheng Li, Suoying Zhang, Shuying Chen, Jun Li and Xiaohua Lu
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060175 - 02 Jun 2017
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5097
Abstract
The regulation of the interaction between H2O2 and its catalysts is a promising route to achieve high productivity and selectivity towards H2O2. Herein, mesoporous anatase/TiO2(B) whisker (mb-TiO2) modified with heterogeneous carbon was [...] Read more.
The regulation of the interaction between H2O2 and its catalysts is a promising route to achieve high productivity and selectivity towards H2O2. Herein, mesoporous anatase/TiO2(B) whisker (mb-TiO2) modified with heterogeneous carbon was prepared as the support of Pd-based catalysts for the direct synthesis of H2O2. The morphology and structure of the catalyst were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, Brunner-Emmet-Teller measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The interaction between H2O2 and the support was studied by isothermal calorimeter. The carbon heterogeneous modification can weaken the interaction between H2O2 and the support, then accelerate the desorption of H2O2 and reduce the re-adsorption of H2O2 in the reaction medium. Meanwhile, the synergistic effects between TiO2 and Pd nanoparticles are not influenced by the heterogeneous carbon distribution. The catalyst exhibits better performance for the synthesis of H2O2 compared with the corresponding unmodified catalyst; the productivity of H2O2 increases more than 40%, which can be ascribed to the decrease of further H2O2 conversion under the weakened interaction. Full article
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8025 KiB  
Article
Nanostructured Ceria-Based Materials: Effect of the Hydrothermal Synthesis Conditions on the Structural Properties and Catalytic Activity
by Marco Piumetti, Samir Bensaid, Tahrizi Andana, Melodj Dosa, Chiara Novara, Fabrizio Giorgis, Nunzio Russo and Debora Fino
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060174 - 02 Jun 2017
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6428
Abstract
In this work, several nanostructured ceria catalysts were prepared by means of a hydrothermal procedure, in which the synthesis conditions (i.e., temperature and pH values) were varied. CeO2 samples of different shapes and structural properties were obtained, namely cubes, rods, cube and [...] Read more.
In this work, several nanostructured ceria catalysts were prepared by means of a hydrothermal procedure, in which the synthesis conditions (i.e., temperature and pH values) were varied. CeO2 samples of different shapes and structural properties were obtained, namely cubes, rods, cube and nanorod mixtures, and other polyhedra. The prepared materials were tested using four probe catalytic reactions: CO oxidation, NO oxidation, NOx-free soot oxidation, and NOx-assisted soot oxidation. The physicochemical properties of the prepared catalysts were studied by means of complementary techniques (i.e., XRD, N2-physisorption at −196 °C, CO-TPR (temperature-programmed reduction), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), micro-Raman spectroscopy). The abundance of defects of the catalysts, measured through in-situ Raman spectroscopy at the typical temperatures of each catalytic process, was correlated to the CO and NO oxidation activity of the prepared catalysts, while the soot oxidation reaction (performed in loose conditions), which was hindered by a poor soot-catalyst contact, was found to be less sensitive to the observed structural defects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceria-based Catalysts)
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3882 KiB  
Review
Unconventional Approaches Involving Cyclodextrin-Based, Self-Assembly-Driven Processes for the Conversion of Organic Substrates in Aqueous Biphasic Catalysis
by Frédéric Hapiot and Eric Monflier
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060173 - 02 Jun 2017
Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5781
Abstract
Aqueous biphasic catalysis is a convenient approach to convert organic, partially soluble molecules in water. However, converting more hydrophobic substrates is much more challenging as their solubility in water is extremely low. During the past ten years, substantial progress has been made towards [...] Read more.
Aqueous biphasic catalysis is a convenient approach to convert organic, partially soluble molecules in water. However, converting more hydrophobic substrates is much more challenging as their solubility in water is extremely low. During the past ten years, substantial progress has been made towards improving the contact between hydrophobic substrates and a hydrophilic transition-metal catalyst. The main cutting-edge approaches developed in the field by using cyclodextrins as a supramolecular tool will be discussed and compared in this short review. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Homogeneous Catalysis and Mechanisms in Water and Biphasic Media)
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2456 KiB  
Article
Imidazoles-Intercalated α-Zirconium Phosphate as Latent Thermal Initiators in the Reaction of Glycidyl Phenyl Ether (GPE) and Hexahydro-4-Methylphthalic Anhydride (MHHPA)
by Osamu Shimomura, Kensuke Tokizane, Takatoshi Nishisako, Shunro Yamaguchi, Junko Ichihara, Manabu Kirino, Atsushi Ohtaka and Ryôki Nomura
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060172 - 01 Jun 2017
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4525
Abstract
The capabilities of imidazoles-intercalated α-zirconium phosphate (α-ZrP·imidazole): imidazol (α-ZrP·Im), 2-methylimidazole (α-ZrP·2MIm), and 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazole (α-ZrP·2E4MIm) as latent thermal initiators were examined by the copolymerization of glycidyl phenyl ether (GPE) and hexahydro-4-methylphthalic anhydride (MHHPA) with the imidazoles-intercalated α-zirconium phosphate at varying temperatures for one-hour periods. [...] Read more.
The capabilities of imidazoles-intercalated α-zirconium phosphate (α-ZrP·imidazole): imidazol (α-ZrP·Im), 2-methylimidazole (α-ZrP·2MIm), and 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazole (α-ZrP·2E4MIm) as latent thermal initiators were examined by the copolymerization of glycidyl phenyl ether (GPE) and hexahydro-4-methylphthalic anhydride (MHHPA) with the imidazoles-intercalated α-zirconium phosphate at varying temperatures for one-hour periods. Polymerization was not observed until the reactants were heated to 100 °C or above. Increasing the temperature, polymerization in the presence of α-ZrP·Im, α-ZrP·2MIm, or α-ZrP·2E4MIm proceeded at 140 °C for 1 h with over 90% conversion. The thermal stabilities of α-ZrP·Im, α-ZrP·2MIm, and α-ZrP·2E4MIm in the reaction at 40 °C for 264 h were tested. With α-ZrP·2MIm, the conversion was less than 15% up to 96 h. In the cases of α-ZrP·Im and α-ZrP·2E4MIm, the conversion reached less than 15% at 264 h. The thermal stabilities of α-ZrP·Im, α-ZrP·2MIm, and α-ZrP·2E4MIm at 40 °C were superior to those of the commercially available thermal latent initiators: HX-3088 and HX-3722. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zirconium Phosphate Catalysts)
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4071 KiB  
Article
Near-Graphite Coke Deposit on Nano-HZSM-5 Aggregates for Methanol to Propylene and Butylene Reaction
by Yu Sang, Aihua Xing, Chuanfu Wang, Zhihua Han and Yulong Wu
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060171 - 01 Jun 2017
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5108
Abstract
Nanocrystal HZSM-5 zeolite aggregates with different SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios were prepared under low temperature and were used to catalyze the conversion of methanol to propylene and butene. The coke location, coke content, and coke species deposited on HZSM-5 [...] Read more.
Nanocrystal HZSM-5 zeolite aggregates with different SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratios were prepared under low temperature and were used to catalyze the conversion of methanol to propylene and butene. The coke location, coke content, and coke species deposited on HZSM-5 aggregates were investigated. The near-graphite carbon on the external surface of HZSM-5 zeolite (SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio = 400) was distinguished by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The carbon distributions in the micropores and on the external surface of the spent HZSM-5 were revealed by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) results. Coke preferred to deposit in the mircopores of low SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio samples (200, 300) with relatively uniform Al distribution, while coke also preferred to deposit on the external surface and in the intergranular spaces of high SiO2/Al2O3 molar ratio sample (400) with an obviously poor Al core and rich Al shell. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanostructured Materials for Applications in Heterogeneous Catalysis)
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1118 KiB  
Communication
Mechanocatalytic Production of Lactic Acid from Glucose by Ball Milling
by Luyang Li, Lulu Yan, Feng Shen, Mo Qiu and Xinhua Qi
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060170 - 01 Jun 2017
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4427
Abstract
A solvent-free process was developed for the direct production of lactic acid from glucose in a mechanocatalytic process in the presence of Ba(OH)2, and a moderate lactic acid yield of 35.6% was obtained. Glucose conversion and lactic acid formation were favorable [...] Read more.
A solvent-free process was developed for the direct production of lactic acid from glucose in a mechanocatalytic process in the presence of Ba(OH)2, and a moderate lactic acid yield of 35.6% was obtained. Glucose conversion and lactic acid formation were favorable at higher catalyst/glucose mass ratios. However, at relatively lower catalyst/glucose mass ratios, they were greatly inhibited, and the promotion of fructose formation was observed. The mechanocatalytic process was applicable for various carbohydrates such as C5 sugars, C6 sugars, and disaccharides with 20–36% lactic acid yields achieved. This work provides a new pathway for the production of value-added chemicals from biomass resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis of Biomass-Derived Molecules)
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6492 KiB  
Review
An Overview on Catalytic Hydrodeoxygenation of Pyrolysis Oil and Its Model Compounds
by Zhan Si, Xinghua Zhang, Chenguang Wang, Longlong Ma and Renjie Dong
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060169 - 01 Jun 2017
Cited by 155 | Viewed by 10189
Abstract
Pyrolysis is considered the most promising way to convert biomass to fuels. Upgrading biomass pyrolysis oil is essential to produce high quality hydrocarbon fuels. Upgrading technologies have been developed for decades, and this review focuses on the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). In order to declare [...] Read more.
Pyrolysis is considered the most promising way to convert biomass to fuels. Upgrading biomass pyrolysis oil is essential to produce high quality hydrocarbon fuels. Upgrading technologies have been developed for decades, and this review focuses on the hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). In order to declare the need for upgrading, properties of pyrolysis oil are firstly analyzed, and potential analysis methods including some novel methods are proposed. The high oxygen content of bio-oil leads to its undesirable properties, such as chemical instability and a strong tendency to re-polymerize. Acidity, low heating value, high viscosity and water content are not conductive to making bio-oils useful as fuels. Therefore, fast pyrolysis oils should be refined before producing deoxygenated products. After the analysis of pyrolysis oil, the HDO process is reviewed in detail. The HDO of model compounds including phenolics monomers, dimers, furans, carboxylic acids and carbohydrates is summarized to obtain sufficient information in understanding HDO reaction networks and mechanisms. Meanwhile, investigations of model compounds also make sense for screening and designing HDO catalysts. Then, we review the HDO of actual pyrolysis oil with different methods including two-stage treatment, co-feeding solvents and in-situ hydrogenation. The relative merits of each method are also expounded. Finally, HDO catalysts are reviewed in order of time. After the summarization of petroleum derived sulfured catalysts and noble metal catalysts, transitional metal carbide, nitride and phosphide materials are summarized as the new trend for their low cost and high stability. After major progress is reviewed, main problems are summarized and possible solutions are raised. Full article
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5598 KiB  
Review
The Power of Non-Hydrolytic Sol-Gel Chemistry: A Review
by Ales Styskalik, David Skoda, Craig E. Barnes and Jiri Pinkas
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060168 - 25 May 2017
Cited by 80 | Viewed by 12093
Abstract
This review is devoted to non-hydrolytic sol-gel chemistry. During the last 25 years, non-hydrolytic sol-gel (NHSG) techniques were found to be attractive and versatile methods for the preparation of oxide materials. Compared to conventional hydrolytic approaches, the NHSG route allows reaction control at [...] Read more.
This review is devoted to non-hydrolytic sol-gel chemistry. During the last 25 years, non-hydrolytic sol-gel (NHSG) techniques were found to be attractive and versatile methods for the preparation of oxide materials. Compared to conventional hydrolytic approaches, the NHSG route allows reaction control at the atomic scale resulting in homogeneous and well defined products. Due to these features and the ability to design specific materials, the products of NHSG reactions have been used in many fields of application. The aim of this review is to present an overview of NHSG research in recent years with an emphasis on the syntheses of mixed oxides, silicates and phosphates. The first part of the review highlights well known condensation reactions with some deeper insights into their mechanism and also presents novel condensation reactions established in NHSG chemistry in recent years. In the second section we discuss porosity control and novel compositions of selected materials. In the last part, the applications of NHSG derived materials as heterogeneous catalysts and supports, luminescent materials and electrode materials in Li-ion batteries are described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sol–Gel Chemistry: A Toolbox for Catalyst Preparation)
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4425 KiB  
Article
Synthesis, Structural Characterization and Catalytic Evaluation of Anionic Phosphinoferrocene Amidosulfonate Ligands
by Jiří Schulz, Filip Horký, Ivana Císařová and Petr Štěpnička
Catalysts 2017, 7(6), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal7060167 - 24 May 2017
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4383
Abstract
Triethylammonium salts of phosphinoferrocene amidosulfonates with electron-rich dialkyphosphino substituents, R2PfcCONHCH2SO3(HNEt3) (4ac), where fc = ferrocene-1,1′-diyl, and R = i-Pr (a), cyclohexyl (Cy; b), and t-butyl ( [...] Read more.
Triethylammonium salts of phosphinoferrocene amidosulfonates with electron-rich dialkyphosphino substituents, R2PfcCONHCH2SO3(HNEt3) (4ac), where fc = ferrocene-1,1′-diyl, and R = i-Pr (a), cyclohexyl (Cy; b), and t-butyl (c), were synthesized from the corresponding phosphinocarboxylic acids-borane adducts, R2PfcCO2H·BH3 (1ac), via esters R2PfcCO2C6F5·BH3 (2ac) and adducts R2PfcCONHCH2SO3(HNEt3)·BH3 (3ac). Compound 4b was shown to react with [Pd(μ-Cl)(η-C3H5)]2 and AgClO4 to afford the zwitterionic complex [Pd(η3-C3H5)(Cy2PfcCONHCH2SO32O,P)] (5b), in which the amidosulfonate ligand coordinates as a chelating donor making use of its phosphine moiety and amide oxygen. The structures of 3b·CH2Cl2, 4b and 5b·CH2Cl2 were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 4ac and their known diphenylphosphino analogue, Ph2PfcCONHCH2SO3(HNEt3) (4d), were studied as supporting ligands in Pd-catalyzed cyanation of aryl bromides with K4[Fe(CN)6] and in Suzuki–Miyaura biaryl cross-coupling performed in aqueous reaction media under mild reaction conditions. In the former reaction, the best results were achieved with a catalyst generated from [PdCl2(cod)] (cod = η22-cycloocta-1,5-diene) and 2 equiv. of the least electron-rich ligand 4d in dioxane–water as a solvent. In contrast, the biaryl coupling was advantageously performed with a catalyst resulting from palladium(II) acetate and ligand 4a (1 equiv.) in the same solvent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Suzuki–Miyaura Cross-Coupling Reaction and Potential Applications)
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