Issue 3, 2014

Organocatalysis in biorefining for biomass conversion and upgrading

Abstract

Organocatalysis using small-molecule organic compounds as catalysts has risen to prominence in organic synthesis and polymer synthesis. However, its application in biorefining for catalytic biomass conversion and upgrading into sustainable chemicals, materials, and biofuels has come to light only recently. This emergence of applying organocatalysis for biorefining has not only broadened the scope of organocatalysis and offered metal-free “greener” alternatives for biomass conversion and upgrading, it has also showed some unique activity and selectivity in such transformations as compared to metal-mediated processes. This review captures highlights of this emerging area by focusing on utilization of organocatalytic means for catalytic conversions of cellulose, glucose and fructose, upgrading of furaldehydes, and organocatalytic polymerization of biomass feedstocks.

Graphical abstract: Organocatalysis in biorefining for biomass conversion and upgrading

Article information

Article type
Critical Review
Submitted
15 Sep 2013
Accepted
12 Nov 2013
First published
12 Nov 2013

Green Chem., 2014,16, 964-981

Organocatalysis in biorefining for biomass conversion and upgrading

D. (D. J.) Liu and E. Y.-X. Chen, Green Chem., 2014, 16, 964 DOI: 10.1039/C3GC41934G

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