Selective hydrogenation of levulinic acid to 1,4-pentanediol in water using a hydroxyapatite-supported Pt-Mo bimetallic catalyst

Hydroxyapatite-supported Pt-Mo bimetallic nanoparticles (Pt-Mo/HAP) catalyze the selective transformation of levulinic acid to 1,4-pentanediol under aqueous conditions. A concerted effect between Pt nanoparticles and molybdenum oxides facilely promotes the hydrogenation of the intermediates 4-hydroxypentanoic acid and gamma-valerolactone to 1,4-pentanediol. The Pt-Mo/HAP catalyst is recoverable and reusable while maintaining its high activity and selectivity.