Selective Photocatalytic Conversion of Cellulose into Useful Feedstocks

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Photocatalysis is typically considered for solar driven processes such as water splitting or solar fuels production; however, photocatalysis can also usefully be applied to the decomposition of pollutants or to produce useful products from biomass. Cellulose is the most abundant biological macromolecule on earth and is made up of linear polymers of glucose molecules. Due to its high abundance and availability, cellulose could be a crucial source for valuable chemicals and sustainable liquid fuel. As a consequence of its stability, however, the conversion of cellulose remains a significant challenge.In this project we seek to further explore the conversion of cellulose to develop a full understanding of the underlying chemical and physical processes and hence to develop more efficient and effective photocatalytic processes. The main tasks will relate to the following:1. To replicate preliminary studies and obtain more detailed analysis of the dependence upon pH and relate this to zeta potential surface chemistry studies2. To develop the photocatalytic test cell for more detailed studies. 3. To perform a full product analysis focusing upon small molecules such as formaldehyde, hydrogen as well as saccharides.4. To optimise product distribution for most useful feedstock production5. To investigate alternative photocatalysts seeking better utilisation of the solar spectrum with lower bandgap materials