Abstract
Nb2O5-supported platinum-group metals catalysts were investigated in the one-pot aqueous-phase isomerization-dehydration-hydrogenation cascade conversion of xylose. The interplay between Nb2O5 acid sites and noble metal particles was discussed with a particular focus on catalyst stability. Pt/Nb2O5 was the best-performing catalyst for xylose upgrading regarding xylose consumption rates and high selectivity to furfuryl alcohol. It was chemically stable as no metal leaching to the aqueous phase was observed. Deposition of carbonaceous materials was identified as the main cause of deactivation and it disturbed the Brønsted acid sites in a more significant way. The impact of choosing an organic co-solvent was also demonstrated. Catalytic activity and distribution of bioproducts were determined by the organic solvent:water mixture. While polarity influenced activity, intermolecular interactions were suggested to tune selectivity.
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