Work

Thermodynamic interpretation of catalytic transformation of levulinic acid over supported perovskites catalysts: dynamic equilibrium and nonlinear arrhenius behavior investigation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The development of active heterogeneous catalysts for the conversion of levulinic acid (LA) is central to the realization of LA as an alternative source of sustainable and renewable fuel. Herein, we investigate the potential use of ABO3 perovskite catalysts in the conversion of LA to ester products through in-depth thermodynamic analysis using nonlinear Arrhenius plots. In a first of its kind for biomass-derived substrate’s valorization, this study shows that the catalyst support used in immobilizing the active perovskite phases plays a role in the deviations observed in nonlinear thermodynamics plots, such as a high reaction rate experienced with a decrease in temperature resulting in a sub-Arrhenius plot. The ABO3 Lanthanum-based perovskites LaMO3 (M = Co, Fe, and Mn) were utilized. These ABO3 catalysts were supported on silica, alumina and titania. The LaCoO3 perovskite phases induce different apparent rate constant regimes and showed a super-Arrhenius behavior when supported on SiO2 (KIT-6) and Al2O3. This leads to an understanding that thermodynamics are inherently associated with the overall catalyst’s chemical and physical properties.

Source: Discover Catalysis.

DOI: 10.1007/s44344-025-00023-6

Authors: Tsholofelo Lepedi, Mulisa Maumela, Qiangqiang Xiao, Busiswa Ndaba, Ndzondelelo Bingwa

Institutions: University of Johannesburg, University of Limpopo, Shandong Jianzhu University, University of South Africa

Language: English

Topic: Catalysis for Biomass Conversion

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,290