Synthesis and properties of a Cu₂O decorated BiVO₄ nanocomposite photocatalyst.

ABSTRACT: Biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a key platform molecule for producing high-value chemicals and clean fuels. This study presents a Cu₂O-decorated BiVO₄ nanocomposite photocatalyst synthesized via a sol-gel-hydrothermal method, enabling efficient visible-light-driven oxidation of HMF to 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) with simultaneous H₂ production. The p-n heterojunction formed between Cu₂O and BiVO₄ promotes charge separation, enhancing photocatalytic activity. Under optimized conditions, the system achieved 49% DFF yield and 947 μmol/g H₂ in 8 h, maintaining high selectivity and stability over five cycles. The work offers a sustainable route for biomass valorization and clean energy generation.

SUBMITTER: Jiahu G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12689187 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature