Electrosynthesis for biomass refining and green H2 by a Ni(OH)2–V2O3 heterostructure: tailoring oxygen vacancies and electronic interactions

Abstract

2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is a key biomass-derived molecule with the potential to replace petrochemical-based terephthalic acid in sustainable polymer production. Electrooxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to FDCA (HMFOR), coupled with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), offers a green and efficient route for simultaneous chemical upgrading and clean hydrogen generation. Herein, we report a Ni(OH)₂–V₂O₃ heterostructured catalyst on nickel foam, prepared via electrodeposition. The heterojunction structure creates oxygen vacancies and enhances charge transfer, which improves catalytic activity toward both the HMFOR and the HER. The electrodes exhibited a wide potential application range from 1.40 to 1.70 V vs. RHE and afforded a 97.5% FDCA yield and 97.4% faradaic efficiency (FE). Moreover, the catalyst proves effective in facilitating the oxidation of various alcohols, achieving yields greater than 96%. In a two-electrode configuration, the system generates 25 mL of hydrogen at the cathode within 50 minutes, achieving nearly 100% FE. This work provides a promising approach to integrated biomass valorization and hydrogen production using cost-effective, non-precious catalysts.