摘要
We developed a unique photocatalyst, CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles decorated on partially reduced graphene oxides, to selectively and efficiently cleave lignin model compounds into value-added aromatic chemicals via a sun-light assisted heterogeneous Fenton process. Through proper design of the photocatalyst composition and reaction conditions, controlled oxidative cleavage of the lignin model compound was achieved to produce high-value aromatic chemicals, guaiacol and 2‑methoxy‑4-propylphenol, in high yields, instead of complete mineralization of the lignin model compound. The CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles effectively catalyze the generation of highly oxidative free radicals from the oxidant, H 2 O 2 , for β-O-4 bond cleavage. The partially reduced graphene oxides serve as the large size support to accommodate and immobilize the CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles for easy recycling of the catalyst, to attract the lignin model compounds through π–π stacking and hydrogen bonding for efficient cleaving reaction, and to accelerate transport of photo-induced electrons for better charge separation and thus higher photocatalytic activities. At optimal conditions, yields of 72.6% and 52.5% were achieved for guaiacol and 2‑methoxy‑4-propylpheno, respectively in 60 min at room temperature and under ambient pressures.