Researchers from Washington State University in the US have discovered a one-stop catalyst to convert ethanol to isobutene.
The catalytic balance of zinc and zirconium oxides (purple block) converts ethanol to isobutene limited byproducts such as acetone and ethyleneImage: PNNL |
The process, which was original revealed in Journal of the American Chemical Society, uses a catalytic mixture of zirconium and zinc oxides, turns bio-ethanol into isobutene - an additive used in producing tyre rubber, solvents and avgas or gasoline octane boosters.
The reaction, which includes the use of water and allows isobutene production to use dilute or unpurified bio-ethanol, is a one-stop process and is, according the researchers, the first time this reaction has ever been seen.
The ratio of 1:10 zinc to zirconium is highly efficient, with the mixed oxide catalyst able to convert 83% of the ethanol into pure isobutene. The researchers also discovered a method of ensuring that while isobutene production was maximised, the breakdown of the catalyst could be slowed to lengthen its lifespan for re-use.
The discovery could prove to be good timing for the researchers, with ASTM International's approval of bio-based aviation fuel as recently reported by OATS.
The research, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy Offices of Science and of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, also involved the facilities of the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory as well as the Institute for Integrated Catalysis located at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.