Selective liquid-phase hydrogenation of maleic anhydride to succinic anhydride on biosynthesized Ru-based catalysts

• Novel bioreduction Ru nanoparticles were synthesized by using CP leaf extracts.
• High conversion of MA with a 100% selectivity to SA was achieved.
• The biosynthesized Ru-based catalysts showed excellent durability and reusability.

Ru-based catalysts, supported on activated carbon and carbon nanotubes, were synthesized by a simple and eco-friendly bioreduction method and tested in the liquid-phase hydrogenation of maleic anhydride. Over 2.0% Ru/AC, succinic anhydride was produced with a maximum yield of 99.2% without further hydrogenation to γ-butyrolactone. Well-defined spherical shapes with uniform small size of Ru nanoparticles and the residual plant biomass were responsible for the excellent catalytic activities and stabilities.

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