Heterogeneous photocatalytic valorization of lignocellulose biomass for chemical and fuel production via reductive pathways

Abstract

Biomass, an abundant and renewable resource, particularly lignocellulosic biomass derived from agricultural and forestry waste, presents substantial potential for sustainable chemical and fuel production. It serves as a renewable source for synthesizing variety of valuable chemicals and fuels. Historically, biomass upcycling has relied on high-temperature thermal and chemical processes, contributing to environmental concerns. In response to these challenges, the emerging field of photocatalysis utilizes light energy to propel chemical reactions, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative. Though relatively recent, the application of photocatalysis in biomass valorization exhibits promising potential for revolutionizing processes toward sustainability. This review primarily explores the photocatalytic valorization of lignocellulosic biomass, encompassing reductive pathways. While oxidative processes have received considerable attention, the reductive aspect remains relatively unexplored, gaining increased interest in recent years. The reductive pathway yields a diverse array of value-added products from cellulosic and lignin components, establishing it as a pivotal avenue for producing fuel additives and industrial synthetic intermediates. Providing a comprehensive exploration of the current knowledge landscape, this review emphasizes photocatalysts and their synthesis and characterization, elucidating reaction mechanisms, and discusses potential applications in reductive photocatalytic biomass upgrading.