Recent Advances in the Photocatalytic Conversion of Biomass-Derived Furanic Compounds

Photocatalysis has recently been highlighted as an environmentally friendly and energy-saving method toward biomass conversion. In this review, recent advances in the photocatalytic conversion of biomass-derived furanic compounds into the corresponding value-added products over various photocatalytic materials are systematically summarized. In addition, progress in the combination of such a photooxidation with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in water splitting is also reviewed. Finally, some potential research trends to systematically investigate the redox potential of photocatalysis, design more effective catalysts, broaden the reaction types, and realize real industrial production via photocatalysis are also proposed. A bright future can be foreseen according to the explosive reports in recent years and the great number of topics that are worth exploring.

Automated summary

This review systematically summarizes recent advances in photocatalytic biomass conversion and the combination of photooxidation with the hydrogen evolution reaction. By investigating the redox potential of photocatalysis, designing more effective catalysts, and broadening reaction types, real industrial production can be achieved. A bright future is foreseen based on explosive reports and numerous promising research topics.