METHODS, SYSTEMS AND DEVICES FOR SIMULTANEOUS PRODUCTION OF LACTIC ACID AND PROPYLENE GLYCOL FROM GLYCEROL

摘要

Methods, processes and systems for using solid catalysts to simultaneously produce lactic acid and propylene glycol from glycerol are provide, as are methods, processes and systems of converting glycerol use heterogeneous catalytic agents. Different combinations of catalysts and reaction conditions provide tunable ranges for the yields of lactic acid and propylene glycol. The conversion methods, processes and systems are not reliant on external hydrogen. Applications to crude glycerol, including that co-produced during biodiesel production, are also described.

主权项

1. A method of converting glycerol to lactic acid, propylene glycol or a combination thereof, the method comprising:
providing liquid glycerol; providing a heterogeneous catalyst, wherein the heterogeneous catalyst comprises a base ingredient and a dehydrogenation ingredient, wherein the base ingredient comprises an alkaline earth metal oxide selected from the group consisting of magnesium oxide (MgO), calcium oxide (CaO), and strontium oxide (SrO); reacting the liquid glycerol with the heterogeneous catalyst, whereby glycerol is converted to a product comprising lactic acid, propylene glycol or a combination thereof.