Recent developments in solvent and catalyst selection for 5-hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid

Abstract

The sustainable and economic production of bio-monomer 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) remains a major hurdle on the path to widescale adoption of biomaterials like polyethylene furanoate (PEF). PEF offers several advantages over conventional petroleum-derived plastics, including enhanced material properties and reduced environmental impact, making its economic feasibility a significant topic of study in recent years. Overcoming the challenges of high catalyst costs, low product solubility, and reactant degradation are key to improving the viability of the process. In recent years, significant research has been reported using both noble and non-noble metal catalysts over a variety of supports including activated carbons, transition metal oxides, and other polymer- or ceramic-based materials. Additionally, heterogeneous catalysts have been investigated in aqueous, organic, and binary aqueous/organic solvent systems to address solubility concerns. In parallel, a better understanding of the reaction mechanism and impact of reaction conditions such as temperature, time, and additives have provided insight into the factors that influence FDCA production. In this review, we report the impact these factors have on 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) oxidation, with key focus on noble and non-noble catalysts in both aqueous and organic solutions. Additionally, we present mechanistic insights related to catalyst and solvent choice.