Glycerol to Propylene Glycol over Copper Chromite: Byproducts and Pathways

Production of 1,2-propanediol through hydrogenolysis of glycerol over Copper-Chromite is a promising reaction pathway which has large potential markets. However, production is complicated by low catalyst stability and significant difficulty in preventing or removing unwanted reaction byproducts. In collaboration with a commercial partner the authors investigated addition of amine compounds during the reaction which acted as catalyst stabilizers. These extended catalyst lifetimes and reduced production of ethylene glycol, the main reaction by-product. Results of modeling experiments will be presented which characterize the remaining catalysis by-products and attempt to identify potential methods of inhibition during reaction.