Synthetic nano-clays to be used in the valorization of glycerol to glycerol carbonate

Abstract

The use of biodiesel is an environmentally friendly alternative to reduce carbon emissions. The production of biodiesel occurs with 10% w/w of glycerol as a byproduct, so it is desirable that it can be used as a renewable raw material to economically favor the process. The catalytic conversion of glycerol to products with higher added value, such as glyceryl carbonate, is an attractive option. It is considered as a green substitute for important petroleum-derived compounds such as ethylene carbonate or propylene carbonate. In addition, it has many applications such as high boiling polar solvent, moisturizing agent for cosmetic clays and as a solvent for medicinal assets and personal care products, etc. A sustainable way to produce glycerol carbonate is the transesterification between the glycerol and an
alkyl carbonate through solid catalysts in smooth process conditions. Among the materials available to be used as heterogeneous catalysts, the mixed oxides derived from synthetic anionic nano-clays arise. These materials have the possibility of custom nano-design, access control to active sites and very low cost of synthesis. In this thesis plan anionic clays of Mg and Al, modified with Li, Cs, Ni, Zn, Cu, etc., will be synthesized in order to increase their activity and selectivity to the valorization of glycerol to obtain glycerol carbonate through a friendly environment process.