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 also examines the oxidation mechanisms of HMF under photocatalytic conditions in both anaerobic and aerobic environments. A comprehensive comparative analysis of reaction parameters, chemical characteristics, and physicochemical properties of various catalytic systems is presented, highlighting their critical role in enhancing catalytic activity and selectivity toward target products. Furthermore, the burgeoning photothermal catalytic modality via the coupling of photocatalysis with thermal effects is also discussed herein. Finally, this review identifies challenges in selective HMF oxidation and outlines directions and prospects.