Efficient production of γ-valerolactone by transfer hydrogenation of levulinic acid using Cu–In2O3–Al2O3 prepared by combustion method

The catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) process is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and efficient approach for hydrogenation, enabling the direct transfer of hydrogen from a donor to the substrate involved in the reaction. In this study, catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) of biomass-derived levulinic acid (LA) into gamma-valerolactone (GVL), employing 2-propanol as the hydrogen donor, was carried out using In₂O₃-modified Cu/Al₂O₃ catalysts with varying In₂O₃ loadings synthesized via a combustion process. Various analytical techniques have been employed to investigate the structural and chemical properties of synthesized catalysts. The loading of In₂O₃ was a critical factor in determining the overall efficacy of the catalyst. Impressively, C10InA achieved a 100 % yield of GVL when tested at 200 °C for a period of 3 h at 1 MPa H₂ pressure. The C10InA catalyst demonstrated remarkable stability throughout a series of five consecutive trials, showcasing its resilience and durability in catalytic processes. This consistent performance is a crucial factor in industrial applications, where long-term stability and reusability of catalysts are essential for cost-effective and sustainable operations.