C1 Chemistry
We are performing the synthesis of platform molecules by the direct conversion of C1 molecules like methane, and the consecutive synthesis of various chemical products by the secondary catalytic conversion. The conversion of methane into an easily transportable liquid fuel or chemicals has become a highly sought-after goal spurred by the increasing availability of cheap and abundant natural gas. One of the most promising directions is the low-temperature partial oxidation of methane to methanol over a metal-loaded zeolite catalyst, which mimics facile enzymatic chemistry of methane oxidation. Methane halogenation is also one of the efficient processes for the direct transformation of methane. This reaction can produce monomethyl halides, which can act as reaction intermediates like methanol to further produce higher hydrocarbons or oxygenates.
Biomass Refinery
We are investigating the biomass-derived platform molecules alternative to the fossil fuels which are responsible for the carbon dioxide emission. Their use as chemical feedstocks is carbon neutral because they are originated from carbon dioxide and water through the photosynthesis. Among the various biomass, glucose is the most abundant and inexpensive starting material for the production of a variety of platform chemicals such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, sorbitol, gluconic acid, succinic acid, levulinic acid, butanediol, etc. The production of biofuels by the catalytic conversion of biomass has also attracted attention. Biomass-derived ethanol can be easily converted to ethylene by dehydration over an acid catalyst like zeolite, and the dehydrated ethanol can then be further turned into transportation fuels like gasoline, diesel, and jet-fuel by oligomerization.
