Direct conversion of cellulose into glycolic acid by a zinc-stabilized UV-Fenton reaction†
Abstract
A novel zinc-stabilized UV-Fenton reaction is created to decompose cellulose under mild, organic solvent-free conditions. Cellulose is successfully decomposed to form a valuable C2 chemical, namely glycolic acid. The zinc ion enhances the yield of glycolic acid via complexation. The whole process is simple, rapid and controllable. This method shows a great commercial potential due to its simplicity and mild reaction conditions.