Catalyst development for the efficient synthesis of pentanediols via the selective hydrogenation of biomass-based furfural and its derivatives

Abstract

The selective hydrogenation and ring-opening of furfural and its derivatives to pentanediols (PDOs) represent a potentially important route for promoting the sustainable production of bio-based fine chemicals. Due to the complex hydrogenation reaction network of furfural, achieving the catalytic hydrogenolysis of the C–O bond in the furan ring to target PDOs with high selectivity is a great challenge. Therefore, the rational design of heterogeneous catalysts is crucial. In this review, the catalyst designs for the hydrogenation of FF and its derivatives to PDOs are catalogued into three major products, 1,2-PDO, 1,5-PDO, and 1,4-PDO. Particular emphasis is placed on catalyst design strategies for the hydrogenation of FF and its derivatives to PDOs, including metal center modulation, support microenvironment engineering (including acidity/alkalinity, oxygen vacancies, and pore structure), and the synergistic effect of additives, to improve the catalytic activity, product selectivity, and catalyst stability. The reaction mechanisms are also discussed to provide insights for enhancing the selectivity and the design of multifunctional catalysts. Finally, future research is expected to focus on the precise design and rational regulation of catalytic systems, aiming to develop non-precious metal catalysts with higher efficiency, enhanced stability, and lower cost.