Microdroplet Cascade Catalysis for Highly Selective Production of Propylene Glycol under Ambient Conditions

作者：Jianing Dong, Jiajia Xu, Zhao‐Dong Meng, Zi‐Ang Nan, Weixin Li, Richard N. Zare, Zhong‐Qun Tian, Feng Ru Fan · 发表于：Journal of the American Chemical Society · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1021/jacs.4c17760 · 被引用次数：32 · 研究领域：Covalent Organic Framework Applications、Layered Double Hydroxides Synthesis and Applications、Mesoporous Materials and Catalysis

Conventional propylene glycol (PG) production relies on an energy-intensive two-step thermocatalytic process, contributing significantly to CO 2 emissions. A sustainable alternative under ambient conditions remains elusive, hindered by challenges in selectivity and energy efficiency. Here, we present a cascade catalysis strategy for efficient and selective PG production within water microdroplets under ambient conditions. Propylene (CH 3 CH═CH 2 ) is converted to PG (CH 3 CH(OH)CH 2 OH) at the microdroplet/titanium silicalite-1 (TS-1) interface, driven by in situ generated hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) via methyl viologen catalysis. This approach harnesses the water microdroplet interface to confine the reaction, enhancing catalytic activity and increasing selectivity. Our system achieves a PG production efficiency of 680 μM and a selectivity of 88%, while minimizing unwanted side products and energy demands. This innovative method offers a sustainable pathway for PG synthesis and highlights the transformative potential of water microdroplet technology in advancing green chemistry and industrial applications.