Catalytic conversion of cellulose into ethylene glycol over supported carbide catalysts

In the current paper we present a combined catalytic and surface science studies to evaluate the utilization of carbide catalysts for the conversion of cellulose to polyols, especially to ethylene glycol (EG). Based on catalytic studies over a W2C catalyst, the EG yield has been optimized by varying H2 pressure, reaction temperature and time. The catalytic performance has been compared for several types of supported catalysts, including tungsten carbides, molybdenum carbides and platinum on different supports. Among all the catalysts, tungsten carbide supported on activated carbon, W2C/AC, shows the highest EG yield, which is further enhanced to 61% with the promotion of Ni. The corresponding surface science studies indicate that the enhanced EG yield is at least partially due to a weaker bonding between EG and Ni-promoted tungsten carbide surface.