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

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.