Unraveling the reaction mechanism of selective C9 monomeric phenols formation from lignin using Pd-AlO-activated biochar catalyst.

The conversion of biomass-derived lignin to valuable monomeric phenols at high selectivity is of paramount importance for sustainable biorefineries. In this study, a novel Pd-AlO supported on activated biochar catalyst is developed for lignin hydrogenolysis. The catalyst characterization revealed that the (111) planes of both of Pd and AlO were exposed to the surface. The maximum lignin conversion of 70.4% along with high liquid yield (∼57 wt%) was obtained at 240 °C, 3 h and 3 MPa H pressure. The total monomeric phenols yield in the liquid was 51.6 wt%, out of which C9 monomeric guaiacols constituted ∼ 30.0 wt% with 38.0% selectivity to 4-propyl guaiacol. Using the reaction intermediate, coniferyl alcohol, chemoselective hydrogenation of C=C is proved to occur over the Pd site, while dehydroxylation of C-OH is shown to occur over the alumina site. An impressive carbon atom economy of 60% was achieved for the production of monomeric phenols.