Operando S/TEM Reactions of Pt/TiO 2 Catalysts for Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis

Abstract

Conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into the transportation fuel is an attractive concept [1]. Using ex situ Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis (CFP) improves to upgrade bio-oils via catalytic deoxygenation of the biomass pyrolysis vapors. Zeolites are often used in this technique as the catalyst; however, in order to reduce minimum fuel selling price and improve carbon yields, ongoing research emphasizes catalyst optimization [2]. By using bifunctional metal-acid catalysts and utilizing hydrogen, it is possible to improve carbon yields by minimizing the carbon-containing light gasses (since oxygen is removed as water) and by reducing coke formation. Current research and development activities focuses on Pt/TiO2catalysts as the most promising catalyst candidates for the hydrodeoxygenation process. The aim of this research is to determine the structure-function relationships of the Pt/TiO2 catalyst and the role of Pt dispersions within the catalyst on performance, using operando scanning transmission electron microscopy (S/TEM).