Recent Advances in Electrocatalytic Oxidation of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid by Heterogeneous Catalysts

The utilization and development of biomass resources is an efficient solution to mitigate the fossil energy crisis. Based on the advantages of mild reaction conditions, rapid reaction, and high conversion, the synthesis of 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) by the electrocatalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMFOR) has attracted considerable attention. This review will summarize the recent advances of HMFOR to FDCA, including the reaction pathway and mechanism, as well as the catalytic performance of various heterogeneous electrocatalysts. The challenges and prospects for HMFOR are also focused on. Finally, it is expected that this work may provide guidance for the design of high-efficiency electrocatalysts and thereby accelerate the industrialization process of biomass utilization.