Enhanced activity of Ru-Ir nanoparticles over SiC for hydrogenation of levulinic acid at room-temperature

A highly efficient Ru-Ir bimetallic catalyst supported on SiC for the aqueous hydrogenation of levulinic acid (LA) into γ-valerolactone (GVL) under mild conditions. The enhanced catalytic activity of Ru0.5-Ir2.5/SiC originates from the electronic synergistic effect among Ru, Ir and SiC.