Electrocatalytic oxidation of biomass-derived chemicals using non-precious metal catalysts: design strategies, performance characteristics and perspectives

Abstract

Electrocatalytic oxidation of biomass-derived chemicals is emerging as a revolutionary strategy for replacing traditional thermocatalytic routes due to the advantages of renewable feedstocks, mild reaction conditions, and directional product tunability. The development of non-precious metal catalysts has not only greatly reduced catalyst costs, but also demonstrated unique selectivity advantages in specific reactions, which could be beneficial for large-scale industrial production. In this review, we summarized recent research progress on non-precious metal catalysts for the electrocatalytic oxidation of biomass-derived chemicals. Electrocatalysts for the oxidation of furfural, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, glycerol and glucose were described in a detailed classification. In addition, the design strategies and performance characteristics of the catalysts are discussed, based on a comprehensive analysis of existing research results. Although non-precious metal catalysts show great potential in the field of biomass electrooxidation, there are still limitations in terms of their intrinsic activity, stability and cost trade-offs. Finally, we provide approaches and perspectives for subsequent studies in terms of their limitations, as well as an outlook on future trends.