Recent developments in electrode materials for the selective upgrade of biomass-derived platform molecules into high-value-added chemicals and fuels

Abstract

As the “fourth-largest energy source” and the “only renewable organic carbon source”, biomass and its derived platform molecules (BDPMs) are widely used for selective upgrading to high-value-added chemicals and fuels, which can alleviate the energy crisis caused by the shortage of traditional fossil fuels. Electrocatalysis is emerging as a promising “biorefinery technology” for BDPM valorization, in which various high-value-added chemicals and fuels can be produced under green and mild conditions. However, the development of electrocatalytic upgrading of BDPMs is hugely lopsided due to a limited understanding of the reaction mechanisms. Herein, we comprehensively review the electrocatalytic upgrade of the top 14 BDPMs (classified into three main groups: alcohols, furans, and carboxylic acids) into high value-added chemicals and fuels, concentrating on the reaction pathways and the mechanisms. Thereafter, we emphasize the recent development of advanced electrode materials and focus on the principles for enhanced electrochemical activity and product selectivity. Afterward, a detailed analysis of advanced electrocatalyst synthesis and modification strategies is described to inspire more research attention and bring forward the practical application of the technique. Finally, we highlight the opportunities, identify the challenges, and propose perspectives for the future development of this flourishing field.