Sustainable γ-valerolactone Production via Photothermal Catalysis

  • PhD Isabel from Spanish National Research Council
  • From Spain
  • Responsive
  • Patents for licensing

Summary of the technology

Novel and sustainable photothermal catalytic method for synthesizing γ-valerolactone (GV with applications as biofuel, green solvent for the pharma industry, precursor for polymers and perfumery. The process utilizes biomass feedstocks and new scalable nickel-based catalysts that significantlyreduce the energy requirements and avoiding H2 gas.

Spanish National Research Council

Details of the Technology Offer

GVL is a bio-based chemical with remarkable industrial potential, primarily due to its derivation from renewable biomass and its versatile properties as a green solvent, fuel additive, and chemical precursor. GVL is poised to replace traditional, hazardous solvents in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. Furthermore, it can be catalytically converted into a range of valuable products, including high-energy liquid fuels, polymers, and other specialty chemicals. GVL is a key player in the transition toward a more sustainable and bio-based economy. However, traditional methods for GVL synthesis involve harsh energy intensive conditions or fossil-derived inputs, limiting the environmental and economic viability.

Sustainable alternative to conventional γ-valerolactone synthesis by efficient photothermal production via scalable and cost-effective Ni-based catalysts without H2 gas, at lower reaction temperature and in shorter time.

Competitive advantages

  • Reduced synthesis cost: lower temperature, pressure and reaction time.
  • Elimination of the H2 gas in the hydrogenation reaction.
  • Compatible with solar synthesis (zero energy cost)
  • Low cost and scalable Ni-based photothermal catalyst with broadband absorption covering the whole solar spectrum
  • Circular economy: transforming biomass residues into high value chemicals

Intellectual property status

  • Patent already applied for
  • Patent application number :European Priority

Related Keywords

  • Industrial manufacturing, Material and Transport Technologies
  • Industrial Technologies
  • Energy Technology
  • Sustainability
  • Energy efficiency
  • Renewable Sources of Energy
  • Protecting Man and Environment
  • Environment
  • Solar / Thermal Energy Technology
  • Industrial Products
  • Photovoltaics Market
  • Energy Market

About Spanish National Research Council

The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) is the largest public institution dedicated to research in Spain and the third largest in Europe. Belonging to the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through the Secretary of State for Research, Development and Innovation, its main objective is to develop and promote research that will help bring about scientific and technological progress, and it is prepared to collaborate with Spanish and foreign entities in order to achieve this aim. According to its Statute (article 4), its mission is to foster, coordinate, develop and promote scientific and technological research, of a multidisciplinary nature, in order to contribute to advancing knowledge and economic, social and cultural development, as well as to train staff and advise public and private entities on this matter.

PhD Isabel Gavilanes-Perez (RTTP)

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