Influence of binder selection on the catalytic performance of zeolite-based bifunctional catalysts for biomass catalysis

The impact of binder selection on catalytic performance of real catalyst extrudates is still limitedly shown in biomass catalysis. Herein, we have prepared two zeolite-based bifunctional extrudates (Ni/LaY-Al2O3 and Ni/LaY-SiO2). Compared with Ni/LaY-Al2O3, Ni/LaY-SiO2 shows a markedly enhanced durability and sustained performance for 936 h in the continuous liquid-phase hydrogenation of γ-valerolactone into methyl pentanoate. Complementary characterization studies reveal that choosing SiO2 as binder could efficiently mitigate metal agglomeration, coke formation and support dealumination during catalysis. These findings showcase that binder selection is essential for catalyst durability in the development of the industrial-level bifunctional catalysts for biomass valorization. [Display omitted] •Ni/LaY-Al2O3 and Ni/LaY-SiO2 with different binders were prepared.•The binder impact on stability were assessed in hydrogenation of γ-valerolactone.•Ni/LaY-SiO2 with a silica binder shows an excellent catalyst durability.•Ni/LaY-Al2O3 deactivates due to Ni agglomeration, coke deposition and dealumination.