The in situ generation of H2O2 from H2 and O2 for use in oxidation reactions

Underhill, Ricci 2017. The in situ generation of H2O2 from H2 and O2 for use in oxidation reactions. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

This thesis concerns the direct synthesis of H2O2 from H2 and O2 which is then utilised in oxidation reactions. The direct synthesis of H2O2 provides a potentially more environmentally-friendly approach than the widely employed anthraqunione process. This work aims to design catalysts that are capable of producing H2O2 via the direct synthesis route, then utilising the produced H2O2 in oxidation reactions. The first part of this thesis concerns the oxidation of phenol using H2O2 generated in situ from H2 and O2 in a one-pot process. Phenol was chosen as the model compound to represent organic contamination in wastewater. H2O2 is a desirable oxidant for application in wastewater treatment owing to its high active oxygen content and the fact that it produces only water as a by-product of its decomposition. A palladium and iron containing catalyst was found to be an effective catalyst for completing this reaction. Additionally, the occurrence and cause of leaching was extensively studied. The second part of this thesis concerns the oxidation of glycerol using H2O2 generated in situ from H2 and O2 in a one-pot process. Glycerol is a highly-functionalised material that can be used as a platform molecule for a variety of value-added products. Glycerol is currently produced as a by-product of biodiesel production, therefore there is considerable interest into its transformation into higher value products. Palladium and iron containing catalysts were found to also be effective for completing this reaction. The effectiveness of in situ formed H2O2 and the bulk addition of commercial H2O2 was compared and highlighted the benefit of performing the reaction using in situ generated H2O2.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Chemistry
Subjects:	Q Science > QD Chemistry
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	25 October 2017
Last Modified:	18 May 2021 09:17
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/105931

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