Conversion of guaiacol as lignin model component using acid-treated, multi-walled carbon nanotubes supported Ru-MnO bimetallic catalysts

Acid-treated, multi-walled carbon nanotube (AMWCNT) supported Ru and MnO bimetallic catalysts were prepared for liquid phase hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol. The physicochemical properties of the prepared catalysts were characterized by FTIR, XRD, NH3-TPD, CO2-TPD, TEM, and XPS. MnO species were loaded on the inner surface of carbon nanotubes and were helpful for Ru particle dispersion. The 6%Ru-8%MnO/AMWCNTs with smaller Ru particle size, better dispersion, and more basic sites gave the best catalytic performance of 99.38% conversion of guaiacol and 85.84% selectivity to cyclohexanol. The effects of reaction conditions on liquid phase guaiacol hydrodeoxygenation were discussed and a possible reaction path was proposed.