Acid‐Catalyzed Conversion of Carbohydrates into Value‐Added Small Molecules in Aqueous Media and Ionic Liquids. Issue 4 (5th February 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bodachivskyi, Iurii; Kuzhiumparambil, Unnikrishnan; Williams, D. Bradley G.
• Is Part Of: ChemSusChem. Volume 11:Issue 4(2018)
• Page Start: 642
• Page End: 660
• Publication Date: 2018-02-05
• Subjects: acid catalysis -- biomass -- carbohydrates -- green chemistry -- solvent effects; Green chemistry -- Periodicals; Sustainable engineering -- Periodicals; Chemistry -- Periodicals; Chemical engineering -- Periodicals; 660
• DOI: 10.1002/cssc.201702016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1864-5631

Abstract

Abstract: Biomass is the only realistic major alternative source (to crude oil) of hydrocarbon substrates for the commercial synthesis of bulk and fine chemicals. Within biomass, terrestrial sources are the most accessible, and therein lignocellulosic materials are most abundant. Although lignin shows promise for the delivery of certain types of organic molecules, cellulose is a biopolymer with significant potential for conversion into high‐volume and high‐value chemicals. This review covers the acid‐catalyzed conversion of lower value (poly)carbohydrates into valorized organic building‐block chemicals (platform molecules). It focuses on those conversions performed in aqueous media or ionic liquids to provide the reader with a perspective on what can be considered a best case scenario, that is, that the overall process is as sustainable as possible. Abstract : Sugar hike : This review covers advances in the acid‐catalyzed conversion of low‐value (poly)saccharides into value‐added organic building‐block chemicals (platform molecules), with a focus on those transformations performed in aqueous or alternative solvents. The overall role of the acid catalyst and solvent employed for the valorization of carbohydrates is evaluated with respect to sustainable processes.