Ethanol-to-butadiene: the reaction and its catalysts

Butadiene is a crucial chemical, notably for the manufacturing of car tires. The ethanol-to-butadiene reaction has emerged as a promising solution to both environmental concerns and the disruption caused by the emergence of shale gas associated with butadiene production. As a result, it has gathered significant scientific interest and private companies are investigating its application. Although there has been much insight into the reaction and its catalysts in recent years, several issues need to be resolved before becoming financially viable. This review aims to provide up-to-date insight into the ethanol-to-butadiene reaction, including topics that are seldom addressed. It can serve as a starting point for any new research projects on the subject of ethanol conversion to butadiene. Catalytic conversion of ethanol is a promising technology for producing sustainable butadiene. This paper reviews the reaction and its catalysts, and discusses the challenges their development faces.