Research advances on the catalytic conversion of biomass-derived furfural into pentanediols

Selective conversion of furfural can prepare various important chemicals, marking it as a prominent area of interest in biomass utilization. This paper reviews the latest progress in the direct conversion of furfural or its derivatives to 1, 5-pentanediol, 1, 2-pentanediol and 1, 4-pentanediol which are widely used high-value fine chemicals with great development potential in application. The recent catalytic methodologies employed in the synthesis of pentanediols from furfural and its derivatives, encompassing both noble metal and non-noble metal catalysts, have been comprehensively summarized. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities in biomass-based pentanediols synthesis are analyzed, emphasizing catalyst importance and sustainable, eco-friendly production for pentanediols from renewable resources.