Catalytic Conversion of Biomass-Derived 1,2-Propanediol to Propylene Oxide over Supported Solid-Base Catalysts

A series of supported alkali metal salts,were, investigated as catalysts to produce propylene oxide (PO) from biomass-derived 1,2-propanediol via dehydrative epox-idation in a solid gas reaction system. The effects of supports, cations, and anions in the alkali metal salts and calcination temperature were investigated by X-ray diffraction, and CO2-temperature-programmed desorption. The results indicate the catalysts with relative mild basicity having higher yields of PO. The highest yield of PO is 58.2% from reactions at 400 degrees C at an atmospheric pressure over KNO3/SiO2. In addition, the catalyst could be reused after calcination in air at 550 degrees C.