Sustainable γ-valerolactone Production via Photothermal Catalysis

Novel and sustainable photothermal catalytic method for synthesizing γ-valerolactone (GV with applications as biofuel, green solvent for the pharma industry, precursor for polymers and perfumery. The process utilizes biomass feedstocks and new scalable nickel-based catalysts that significantly reduce the energy requirements and avoiding H2 gas.

Market need: GVL is a bio-based chemical with remarkable industrial potential, primarily due to its derivation from renewable biomass and its versatile properties as a green solvent, fuel additive, and chemical precursor. GVL is poised to replace traditional, hazardous solvents in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. Furthermore, it can be catalytically converted into a range of valuable products, including high-energy liquid fuels, polymers, and other specialty chemicals. GVL is a key player in the transition toward a more sustainable and bio-based economy. However, traditional methods for GVL synthesis involve harsh energy intensive conditions or fossil-derived inputs, limiting the environmental and economic viability.

Proposed solution: Sustainable alternative to conventional γ-valerolactone synthesis by efficient photothermal production via scalable and cost-effective Ni-based catalysts without H2 gas, at lower reaction temperature and in shorter time.
Synthesis based on renewable feedstocks, reducing dependence on fossil-derived chemicals.
It presents reduced energy consumption compared to traditional hydrogenation processes and compatibility with solar synthesis.

Competitive advantages

Reduced synthesis cost: lower temperature, pressure and reaction time.
Elimination of the H2 gas in the hydrogenation reaction.
Compatible with solar synthesis (zero energy cost).
Low cost and scalable Ni-based photothermal catalyst with broadband absorption covering the whole solar spectrum.da ancha que cubre todo el espectro solar.
Economía circular: transformación de residuos de biomasa en productos químicos de alto valor.
Circular economy: transforming biomass residues into high value chemicals.