Toward Maximizing the Ag–CeO2 Interface and Rich Oxygen Vacancies for Efficient Photocatalytic Oxidation of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural

In the pursuit of high-selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to valuable derivatives such as 5-hydroxymethylfuroic acid (HMFCA), 5-formyl-2-furanoic acid (FFCA), and furan-2,5-dicarboxylic acid (FDCA), we have developed a diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA)-assisted strategy to construct a highly effective photothermal catalyst with maximized Ag–CeO2 interfaces and rich oxygen vacancies. Under optimal reaction conditions, this catalyst achieves remarkable yields of 99% for HMFCA, 99% for FFCA with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 163 h–1, and 98% for FDCA. Combined theoretical calculations and a series of characterization analyses reveal that the superior performance is due to the unique properties of the maximized Ag–CeO2 interfaces and the rich oxygen vacancies, which enhance electron transport and synergistically enhance the catalytic activity of silver clusters. In contrast to other photocatalytic oxidation systems for HMF, this work showcases high selectivity in the oxidation of HMF to HMFCA, FFCA, and FDCA. These findings not only elucidate the mechanisms behind selective oxidation but also offer a promising approach for the directional photosynthesis of high-purity chemicals in related applications.