Optimal Design of Catalysts for Photoreforming Lactic Acid/Polylactic Acid to Clean Fuels and Value-Added Chemicals

Driven by the global transition toward green energy, hydrogen has emerged as a vital clean carrier. Solar-driven conversion of lactic acid (LA) and polylactic acid (PLA) into hydrogen and value-added chemicals has attracted intense interest due to its low energy footprint and utilization of renewable/waste feedstocks. This simultaneous generation of fuel and chemicals enables the upcycling of biomass and plastic waste, significantly enhancing the economic viability and sustainability of the photocatalytic process. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in the photoreforming of LA and PLA. The reaction mechanisms and catalyst design strategies were in-depth discussed with a specific focus on the precise regulation of reaction pathways. Moreover, various strategies for enhancing photocatalytic performance are summarized, including surface engineering, bulk structure and compositional engineering, heterojunction construction, and nanostructural and hierarchical structural design. Finally, the major challenges currently facing this field are further identified, aiming to provide a theoretical reference for the design and synthesis of novel photocatalytic materials.