Mechanochemistry-assisted synthesis of MgO/N-doped biochar from wood waste for synergistic catalysis in rosin esterification

The development of efficient catalysts for rosin esterification is essential for advancing the high-value utilization of natural rosin, owing to the improvements in its processability. This study focused on the preparation of the magnesium oxide/N-doped biochar (B-MgO-N-C) from wood waste using a mechanochemistry-assisted strategy. Comprehensive characterizations revealed that ball milling together with nitrogen doping facilitated the incorporation of MgO into the carbon matrix, both of which contributed to the improved catalytic activity. The catalytic performance of B-MgO-N-C was then evaluated using the esterification of rosin with glycerol as a model reaction. After optimization, a 94.6 % rosin conversion was achieved at 230 °C over 4 h, outperforming the performance of both MgO-loaded biochar and N-doped biochar catalysts. The enhanced catalytic activity of B-MgO-N-C can be attributed to the synergistic effect of in-situ embedded MgO and N-doping, which increases the number of active sites. CO 2 -TPD and NH 3 -TPD studies confirmed the importance of basic sites in promoting the esterification of rosin, whereas acidic sites might also contribute to this process. Moreover, recycling tests demonstrated that N-doping improved the stability of B-MgO-N-C. The catalyst also showed high rosin conversion when other alcohols were used. Accordingly, this work presents a straightforward strategy for designing metal oxides/N-doped biochar as advantageous catalysts for the esterification of rosin. • A MgO/N-doped biochar catalyst (B-MgO-N-C) was synthesized from wood waste via a mechanochemistry-assisted method. • The B-MgO-N-C achieved a 94.6 % rosin conversion, outperforming MgO-loaded biochar and N-doped biochar. • N-doping significantly improved the stability of B-MgO-N-C compared to the undoped catalyst. • Synergistic effects of ball milling and N-doping enhanced MgO incorporation and substantially increased active sites.