This thesis explores the development of zeolite and metal-organic framework (MOF) catalysts for the production of value-added monomers. In particular, work focuses on the production of a platform molecule, 5-hydroxylmethylfurfural (HMF), from sugars obtained from widely available and renewable biomass resources. The production of HMF from glucose, the cheapest and most abundant hexose contained within lignocellulosic biomass, may proceed via an initial isomerisation reaction towards fructose. As such, the catalysts in this thesis target glucose isomerisation as well as HMF production.

Work begins with the production of metal-containing beta zeolites using a rapid synthesis technique. This method effectively reduces the synthesis times of metal-containing beta zeolites from 40 days to 3 days. A number of different metals were successfully introduced into the beta zeolite framework. The materials were tested as glucose isomerisation and dehydration catalysts in various reaction solvents. Following this, a post-synthesis technique was used to produce metal-containing zeolite Y catalysts. Again, materials were tested as glucose isomerisation and dehydration catalysts in various solvents.

With regards to MOFs, a series of initial studies explore the catalytic activities of several known frameworks; MIL-88B, Yb6(BDC)7(OH)4(H2O)4, ZIF-8, and UiO-66. Of these, a functionalised zirconium UiO-66 material was found to be of considerable interest as a glucose isomerisation catalyst in water. As such, the catalytic abilities of functionalised zirconium MOFs, UiO-66 and UiO-67, were studied further in a final experimental chapter. This final study highlights the potential to ā€œfine-tuneā€ MOF catalysts towards the production of fructose and HMF.

The catalytic tests within this thesis are generally preformed within batch reactors. However, a number of highly promising catalysts were also tested within a purpose built continuous flow reactor. The stability and reusability of numerous catalysts are explored. Preference is given to water mediated reactions, although alternative reaction solvents are also considered.