Near-infrared photothermal catalysis for biomass upgrading

The efficient conversion of biomass into value-added chemicals via sunlight-driven processes remains a significant challenge in energy chemistry, particularly within the domain of photothermal catalysis. In this study, we demonstrate that doping Mn₂O₃ with Na⁺-induced oxygen vacancies (OVs) significantly enhances its catalytic performance under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. This modification unveils a novel mechanism for the generation of singlet oxygen (¹O₂), facilitated by the synergistic action of OVs and h_VB⁺. Utilizing NIR solar energy to activate peroxymonosulfate (PMS), we achieve a high-value oxidation process, employing the bio-based platform molecule 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) as a model substrate to selectively convert it into 5-formyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (FFCA). This work offers new perspectives on sustainable green chemistry, advancing the efficient transformation of biomass into high-value chemicals through solar-driven processes.