Sulfonic Mesostructured SBA-15 Silicas for the Solvent-Free Production of Bio-Jet Fuel Precursors via Aldol Dimerization of Levulinic Acid

Sulfonic acid-functionalized mesostructured silicas have been evaluated in the solvent-free aldol dimerization of biomass-derived levulinic acid into bio-jet fuel precursors. These compounds produce branched alkanes a subsequent hydrodeoxygenation process, with suitable properties for being renewable alternative to conventional fossil aviation fuels. The combination activity and selectivity toward desired condensation products achieved over sulfonic SBA-15 materials is superior those displayed by other commercial solid catalysts. Enhanced textural provided mesoporous support contribute such improved catalytic performance. strength loading silica-supported moieties are also important factors affecting performance materials. Reaction conditions (temperature, time, catalyst loading) optimized propylsulfonic silica (Pr-SBA-15) means response surface methodology, leading maximum yield 58.4% (145 °C, 0.15 g catalyst, 24 h, no solvent). Under these reaction conditions, conversion 61.1%, indicating excellent A small decay has detected reutilization experiments, attributed formation organic deposits onto surface. mild washing allowed significant recovery initial activity.