Breakthrough catalyst converts glycerol to propylene

In Japan, researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new catalyst that efficiently converts glycerol, a byproduct of biodiesel production, into biobased propylene.

The study, published recently in Chemical Communications, discusses an innovative catalyst that can selectively reduce glycerol derivative allyl alcohol to biobased propylene, using renewable energy sources like hydrogen or electricity. The catalyst features a unique molecule called a metalloligand, which facilitates the reversible binding of two metals within the catalyst. This minimizes byproduct formation, maximizes selectivity, and enhances reaction efficiency.

Propylene is commonly derived from petroleum and is widely used in the production of plastics.