Recent Progress of Advanced Biofuel 2,5-Dimethylfuran Production from 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural

Given the depletion of fossil resources and mounting environmental pressures, the efficient conversion of the biomass-derived platform molecule 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) into the liquid fuel 2,5-dimethylfuran (DMF) is of critical strategic importance. The recent advances in the hydrogenolysis of HMF to DMF were systematically summarized in this review. The performance advantages and limitations of monometallic catalysts, including noble metals and non-noble metals, were discussed. The bimetallic active centers engineered through synergistic effects to enhance activity were summarized. Crucially, the roles of the physicochemical properties of catalyst supports and the hydrogen donors in governing reaction pathways and efficiency were also analyzed in depth. Finally, future research directions were proposed to address current challenges related to catalyst durability and economic viability.