The selective hydrogenolysis of C–O bonds in lignin model compounds by Pd–Ni bimetallic nanoparticles in ionic liquids

Abstract

β-O-4 and α-O-4 linkages can be selectively cleaved by Pd–Ni bimetallic nanoparticles in ionic liquids using hydrogen gas as the hydrogen donor under ambient pressure and neutral conditions. No hydrogenation of the benzene ring takes place in the catalytic system. An obvious improvement in activity is found compared with single nickel and palladium catalysts based on the results of experiments and characterization. After the reaction, the catalytic system still remains in the reactor by simple extraction, which can be reused without further treatment.