Transformation of bio-derived acids into fuel-like alkanes via ketonic decarboxylation and hydrodeoxygenation: Design of multifunctional catalyst, kinetic and mechanistic aspects

The combination of a low cost source of Biofine's levulinic acid with available way of valeric acid synthesis opens up new opportunities for valeric acid as a promising bio-derived source for synthesis of valuable compounds for transportation sector. The present review illustrates the development of different approaches to one–pot synthesis of fuel-like alkanes from lignocellulose derived carboxylic acids where particular focus is given to valeric acid consecutive decarboxylative coupling (ketonization) and ketone hydrodeoxygenation in a single reactor over one catalyst bed. The key factors that influence the catalytic performance on both ketonization and hydrodeoxygenation steps as well as their cross-influence will be clarified to provide insights for the design of more efficient catalysts for the one-pot transformation. Valeric acid is considered as a potential acid source from viewpoint of cost effectiveness and feasibility of such transformation with reasonable alkane yield. The both reaction mechanisms and kinetics will also be discussed to understand deeply how the selective CC coupling and following CO hydrogenation can be achieved.