Electrocatalytic upgrading of furan derivatives

Abstract

Rising concerns over fossil fuel reliance have driven the development of biomass-derived chemical production. Transforming hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and furfural, key platform compounds, into sustainable chemicals enhances the biomass value chain. Electrosynthesis emerges as a green and efficient approach to upgrading furan derivatives into biofuels, biopolymers, and industrial chemicals. This minireview discusses advancements in electrocatalytic upgrading of furan derivatives, particularly featuring biorefinery with hydrogen production for cost-efficient and sustainable processes. Importantly, this minireview also highlights the current advancement in electrocatalyst design and addresses the challenges of improving electrocatalytic efficiency in terms of enhanced product selectivity, Faradaic efficiency (FE), and overall process sustainability.