Research progress on photo-driven catalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

Abstract

5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) has emerged as a key platform compound for converting lignocellulosic biomass into C6 chemicals. Catalytic upgrading of these renewable carbohydrates not only yields high-value chemicals but also establishes innovative pathways and theoretical frameworks for the valorization of crude biomass. This paper reviews recent advances in photo-driven catalytic technologies for transforming HMF into sustainable chemicals, including 2,5-dimethylfuran (DFF), 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (HMFCA), 5-formyl-2-furanacetic acid (FFCA), and 2,5-furanedicarboxylic acid (FDCA). It investigates the fundamental oxidation mechanisms under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, emphasizing the critical role of regulating reactive species and photogenerated holes in enhancing catalytic activity and product selectivity. Furthermore, this review discusses in detail the emerging photothermal catalytic and photoelectrocatalytic systems. Finally, this review identifies persistent challenges in the field of selective HMF oxidation, such as controlling complex reaction networks and maintaining catalyst stability, and outlines future perspectives for precision active-site engineering and multi-field synergistic catalysis.