Synthesis of Nanoparticles for Biomass Conversion Processes

Abstract

The design and synthesis of well-defined metallic and bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs), their characterization, and the assessment of how their size and shape-dependent properties influence their applications are important areas of investigation for advancing green technologies that protect the environment. This chapter reviews recent advances in the design and synthesis of metallic, bimetallic and semiconductor nanoparticles and their emerging applications in the production of energy and chemicals from biorenewable materials. This contribution focuses on nanoparticle-mediated processes for biomass transformation that include hydrogenation, hydrogenolysis, decarboxylation, small molecule oxidation, conversion of cellulosic materials, hydrocarbon formation, and production of fuel cells. These processes all have significant potential for development of green technologies.

Facile Synthesis of Copper Nanocubes in Aqueous Phase for Catalytic Esterification Using Green-Conditions

“…Nevertheless, the surface distortion of heterogeneous catalysts can reduce efficiency and selectivity [20]. Metal catalysts have gained significant attention for esterification processes [21], and several metallic nanoscale heterogeneous catalysts have been established to achieve high efficiency and selectivity in esterification transformation [22][23][24]. Copper nanoparticles exhibit significant catalytic properties due to their unique metallic properties and quantum size.…”