Functionalized nanomaterials for biomass conversion

Abstract The valorization of the biomass is, nowadays, considered an eco-sustainable approach for the production of biofuels and added-value platform molecules. This research will focus on different types of functionalized silica or titania based materials applied both to the synthesis of added-value products (in particular GVL, HMF and pentandiols) and to the biodiesel production and its additives. As concern the nanomaterials, silica or titania materials were functionalized, by using several approaches, with organic (acid) frameworks or inorganic (Pd, Au, Ti) catalytic functions depending on the organic reaction in which they were applied. According to the principle of the circular chemistry, special attention was paid to the sustainability of the chemical processes, green working conditions, heterogeneous catalysis and use of wastes.