Efficient conversion of cellulose to lactic acid over yttrium modified siliceous Beta zeolites

The selective one-pot synthesis of lactic acid (LA) from cellulose, and further the raw biomass, on heterogeneous catalysts is the key point for the development of biorefinery technology. Herein, we reported an yttrium (Y) modified siliceous Beta zeolites catalyst via two-step post-synthesis for highly efficient conversion of cellulose to LA. Under condition of 220 °C and 2 MPa N2, the cellulose could be transformed to LA with a yield of 49.2 % within 30 min, and the substrate can be extended to various raw biomass. It was demonstrated that the dealumination and modification of Y can efficiently modulate the acidity on the surface of zeolite. The dehydration products HMF and other derivatives were suppressed, and the yield of LA was correlated in line with the acid amount, which were attributed to the increased Lewis acidity originated by Y incorporation. These results contribute to the development of the green and efficient synthesis of bio-chemicals.