Boosting Cyclopentanone Selective Production via Tuning Electron Effect Between Pt and NiO in MCM-41 Catalysts from Furfural Hydrogenationrearrangement

Abstract

The catalytic conversion of biomass-derived furfural (FAL) to cyclopentanone (CPO) via hydrogenation-rearrangement is a promising route for sustainable fine chemicals. Pt-based catalysts exhibit superior performance but suffer from limited control over hydrogenation behavior and reaction selectivity. To overcome these challenges, we designed a synergistic metal and metal oxide catalyst (1Pt3Ni/MCM-41). Introduction of NiO triggers strong electronic interaction with Pt, tuning both metal active sites and acidic centers. This interfacial electron transfer improves Pt dispersion on the mesoporous MCM-41 support, inhibits aggregation, and stabilizes the catalyst against sintering and leaching. Meanwhile, electron transfer from NiO modulates the electronic structure of Pt, promoting hydrogen dissociation and the formation of active hydrogen species. The charge redistribution also optimizes surface acidity, enhancing selective adsorption and activation of the C=O bond in FAL. Under mild conditions, the catalyst achieves 97.5% FAL conversion, 90.6% CPO selectivity, and a high activity of 883•h -1 . This work provides a rational strategy for designing high-performance bifunctional catalysts for efficient, selective upgrading of FAL to CPO.