Catalytic hydrogenolysis of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to biofuel 2, 5-dimethylfuran

2, 5-dimethylfuran (DMF), which is synthesized through catalytic hydrogenolysis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), is one of the most promising liquid biofuels for transportation because of its high energy density, high boiling point, and water insolubility. In recent years, studies of the hydrogenolysis of HMF to DMF have attracted increasing attention, with numerous novel catalytic systems and significant research achievements being reported as a result. Thus, in this review, we focus on hydrogenolysis of HMF into DMF through various catalytic systems, and systemically summarize the latest advances and progress on this reaction from the perspective of catalysts, including noble and non-noble metal-based catalysts. Moreover, the reaction mechanisms for different catalysts, the limitations and problems in current research, and potential research trends are discussed in this review.