Research Progress of Catalytic Conversion Based on Biomass Refining Derivatives

As a carbon-neutral, renewable resource, biomass has received considerable attention from researchers due to its abundant reserves, diverse sources, and sustainability. Crop straw, as a major biomass resource, has also attracted considerable attention. It is an agricultural byproduct, generated in vast quantities annually. However, traditional straw treatment methods, such as direct burning or discarding, waste resources and cause environmental pollution. Therefore, the efficient and high-value-added utilization of straw has become a research hotspot. The utilization of platform compounds based on biomass alleviates resource scarcity and offers broad application prospects and significant market potential. Researchers have transformed lignocellulose into high-value-added chemicals, including 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and benzaldehyde (BZH), through various technical means. The production of these chemicals enables the effective utilization of straw and provides new pathways for biomass resource conversion. For example, biomass-derived HMF and BZH, two important platform compounds, can be converted into a variety of liquid fuels and high-value-added chemicals through chemical reactions. These compounds have broad application prospects in energy, the chemical industry, medicine, and other fields. Among them, 2,5-dimethyltetrahydrofuran (DMTHF), a typical product of HMF hydrogenation, is widely used as a liquid fuel and green solvent for various organic reactions due to its unique chemical properties. DMTHF offers advantages such as high calorific value and low pollution, and can also serve as a hydrogen source for fuel cells, powering the development of new energy vehicles. N-benzylidenebenzylamine (N-BDB), a typical product of BZH amination, plays a vital role in drug synthesis. N-BDB serves as an intermediate for β-lactam antibiotics and bioactive compounds, providing a new source of raw materials for the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, N-BDB can be used to synthesize other high-value-added compounds, such as dyes and spices, expanding its applications. These chemical production processes also reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels, facilitating energy structure transformation and environmental protection goals. Therefore, research and utilization of biomass resources have significant impacts on promoting sustainable economic and social development. In the future, continued scientific and technological advancements, coupled with supportive policies, will expand the application of biomass resources and further solidify their crucial role in the energy system.