Direct conversion of cellulose into sorbitol catalyzed by a bifunctional catalyst.

The conversion of cellulose into sorbitol has been recognized as one of most promising biomass valorization routes for the production of high added-value chemicals. In this work, Sulfonic acid-functionalized carbonized cassava dregs supported ruthenium bifunctional catalyst (Ru/CCD-SOH) was prepared. The Ru/CCD-SOH catalyst was employed for direct conversion of cellulose into sorbitol in a neutral aqueous solution. A sorbitol yield of 63.8% could be obtained at 180 °C for 10 h. The acidic sites and metal hydrogenation sites of the Ru/CCD-SOH catalyst played an important role in hydrolytic hydrogenation of cellulose. Particularly, there presented a strong synergistic effect between sulfonic groups and Ru nanoparticles in conversion of cellulose into sorbitol. This synergistic effect was favorable to enhancing the sorbitol yield. Besides, the stability of Ru/CCD-SOH catalyst was investigated under the optimal reaction conditions. The catalytic performance of catalyst was decreased after being used five times.