TiO2–AgCl Based Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Production of Phenolic Compounds from Lignocellulosic Residues

Lignocellulosic biomass residues can be used as an interesting resource for the production of biochemicals or sustainable fuels. In this optic, lignin represents an interesting raw material for the production of chemicals, such as aromatic compounds, or fuels. This can contribute in moving away from petroleum-based industries to bio-based industries.

The aim of this study was to investigate the application of a photocatalytic process using a commercial solution composed by TiO2 doped with AgCl for wheat straw valorization. The study investigated the effect of pH and catalyst concentrations for optimal phenolic compounds production. It was found that the photocatalytic treatment boosted the phenolic production from wheat straw.

The efficiency of the process depended on the initial pH and catalyst concentration. Process optimization towards increased phenolic compounds production was performed. Catalyst concentration of 1 g/L and a treatment time of 1.56 hours in alkaline conditions resulted in the highest phenolics production.

Use of the photocatalytic treated wheat straw for anaerobic digestion (AD) was also evaluated. Results showed that the AD microbiome is strongly inhibited by the presence of toxic compounds presented in the catalyst-straw solution and specifically, HNO3 was toxic to methanogenic communities. Hence, to succeed in an efficient biorefinery framework where total phenols and biogas production are combined, the usage of HNO3 for catalyst synthesis should be avoided.