Catalytic Strategies for Changing the Energy Content and Achieving CC Coupling in Biomass‐Derived Oxygenated Hydrocarbons

This Concept examines the opportunities for the use of biomass feedstocks in the production of liquid fuels for the transportation sector of society. The cost-competitive conversion of biomass into liquid fuels involves the integration of processes that operate on lignocellulosic feeds with processes that convert specific fractions of lignocellulose. A brief description of current energy systems is given to indicate the potential contributions of biomass to replace fossil fuel feedstocks for energy production, followed by a description of current biomass-conversion technologies. Specific focus is given to promising reaction pathways and novel research opportunities for conversion of the carbohydrate fraction of lignocellulose into fuels with targeted structures.