Electrochemical tailoring of graphite properties for tunable catalytic selectivity of glucose conversion to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

This study presents a novel approach for boosting the selectivity of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) production from glucose through electrochemical modification of graphite materials. Three distinct graphitic substrates were subjected to controlled electrochemical treatments utilizing sodium sulfate or phosphoric acid as electrolytes. The process expanded the graphite particles/pieces and introduced oxygenated functional groups to the exposed surfaces while preserving the structural integrity of the bulk material. The resulting modifications influenced the type and quantity of Lewis and Br & Oslash;nsted acidic sites, providing exhaustive control over reaction pathways leading to HMF. This electrochemically modified graphite demonstrated superior tunability compared to traditional metal-based catalysts, enabling dynamic optimization of reaction conditions for enhanced HMF yield. The controlled introduction of functional groups facilitated the tailoring of active sites, significantly impacting the kinetics of glucose conversion and achieving HMF selectivity up to 95%. This level of precision in controlling catalytic properties is essential for maximizing HMF yield while minimizing undesired by-product formation, addressing a critical challenge in HMF production.