Site balance in zeolites for the conversion of glucose to 5-HMF or levulinic acid via fructose

The PhD project is proposed in the context of the transformation and upgrading of lignocellulosic biomass into platform molecules for the chemical industry. The goal of the project is to prepare new, purposely designed bifunctional zeolite catalysts suitable for the conversion of biomass-based sugars into chemicals. After careful examination of the literature, the project will consist in the preparation of a series of catalytic materials with varying properties. These catalysts will be then fully characterized using state-of-the-art methods. They will be then tested in catalysis for the conversion of sugars. Particular care will be put in the precise determination of the various products formed, using various analytical techniques. The results altogether should allow for drawing structure-activity relationships. 
Through this project the candidate should thus be trained to a variety of techniques and approaches for the fundamental and applied research in the field of catalysis and biomass transformation, which should give him/her a suitable training to look for a position in academia or industry.

Keywords: zeolite, biomass, sugar, catalysis

• Academic supervisor    Dr. Gerhard PIRNGRUBER, IFPEN, http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0688-425X
• Doctoral School    ED206, https://www.edchimie-lyon.fr/, UCBL
• IFPEN supervisor    Dr. Kim LARMIER, ORCID 0000-0002-5199-1516
• PhD location    IFP Energies nouvelles, Lyon, France  
• Duration and start date    3 years, starting in the fourth quarter 2024 (Novembre 4)
• Employer    IFPEN
• Academic requirements    University Master degree Physical/Analytical Chemisty, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering
• Language requirements    Fluency in French or English, willingness to learn French

To apply, please send your cover letter and CV to the IFPEN supervisor indicated below.