Conversion of cellulosic biomass to value-added chemicals using solar-driven carbon-based photocatalytic systems

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Chemicals continue to play a pivotal role in improving our quality of life and the chemical industry is a key driver of national and global economies. However, with an estimated 1.63 billion tonnes of fossil fuel feedstock and 42.5 EJ final energy consumption per year, this industry is the third largest global emitter of carbon dioxide. Meanwhile, as per the United Nation's Global Chemical Outlook II released last year, the size of chemical industry is projected to double by 2030. Hence, there has been a growing call for the development of green production processes that ensure the sustainability of this important industry while securing the health of our environment. To this end, application of solar photocatalysis for the conversion of biomass to value-added compounds has been gaining increasing momentum as a green pathway to sustainable chemical industry. This technology relies on an abundantly available and renewable source of carbon, i.e. biomass, to directly store solar energy in the form of chemical bonds by producing valuable chemicals while decreasing carbon dioxide emissions. Accordingly, the long-term objective of this program is to advance our fundamental knowledge and develop novel technologies for the photocatalytic conversion of waste biomass to valuable chemicals using solar energy. In short term, we propose to develop cost effective biochar-based solar photocatalysts, to convert cellulosic biomass to platform chemicals such levulinic acid and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). These chemicals can then replace fossil fuels in producing valuable products such as fuels, solvents, polymers, resins, plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, food and nutraceuticals. The proposed program support Canada's vision in achieving its obligations under the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The outcome of this research is expected to enhance the quality of life of Canadians and improve the health of our environment by reducing the use of fossil fuels and reducing GHG emissions. The proposed research program helps Canada to secure its global leadership in the rapidly growing sustainable chemical industry sector. It will result in transformative innovations that could be readily integrated in existing manufacturing processes and hence transform the Canadian forest product and chemical industries while creating new `green' jobs. Finally, it will train the next generation of highly qualified personnel that are well-prepared to lead the industry's transition to a low-carbon economy.