Pd-loaded modulated MOF-808: a bifunctional solid-acid catalyst for one-pot oxidation–acetalization

O/HAc/HCl achieved 99.9% benzyl alcohol conversion and 82.8% acetal selectivity, outperforming zeolite-supported Pd catalysts (HY, HZSM-5 and SAPO-11). While the oxidation rate was consistent across all catalysts, the MOF-808 support's optimal moderate acidity was crucial for directing selectivity toward acetalization and minimizing byproduct formation. The catalyst maintained its performance over six cycles without Pd leaching or structural degradation, highlighting the synergy between metallic sites for oxidation and tailored acidic sites for subsequent transformation in tandem catalysis.