Research on Transfer Hydrogenation & Metal Catalysts

From biomass processing to functional material applications: A review of reductive catalytic fractionation

Pan, Z., Chu, C., Zhang, Q., Liu, Z., Yu, I.K.M.* J. Mater. Chem. A, 2026

Schematic diagram of the Reductive Catalytic Fractionation (RCF) process, showing the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into separate streams of carbohydrate pulp and lignin oil, highlighting key processing steps such as solvolysis and hydrogenolysis.

This comprehensive review examines reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) as a vital, integrated platform bridging upstream thermochemical fractionation of lignocellulosic biomass with downstream high-value functional material fabrication. The work analyzes cutting-edge advancements in RCF catalyst and solvent systems, outlines current pilot- and commercial-scale demonstrations, and highlights pathways toward a sustainable circular bioeconomy, with a focus on the emerging, high-value applications of RCF pulps in energy storage (such as advanced battery components) and biomedical engineering (such as tissue scaffolds and biocompatible hydrogels). Read the full review in Journal of Materials Chemistry A.

Production of polyols from sugars in biorenewable alcohol: Selectivity of hydrogen transfer on metal catalysts

Zhang, Q., Liu, Z., Li, X., Yu, I.K.M.* Green Chem., 2026, 28, 8781–8791.

https://doi.org/10.1039/d6gc01028h

Graphical abstract illustrating the production of polyols from sugars—including glucose, fructose, xylose, and maltose—in isopropanol via hydrogen transfer over ruthenium catalysts.

This study explores the valorization of biomass-derived sugars into high-value polyols through liquid-phase catalytic systems using biorenewable alcohols like isopropanol as hydrogen donors. By investigating reaction pathways specifically over ruthenium catalysts, this work sheds light on the fundamental mechanisms governing hydrogen transfer selectivity, reaction kinetics, and catalyst efficiency. Read the full paper in Green Chemistry (Vol. 28, 8781–8791).

A starch-to-sorbitol biorefinery: Impact of oxygenated impurities on the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of starch hydrolysate

Liu, Z., Zhang, Q., Wang, J., Li, Z., Yu, I.K.M.* Bioresource Technol., 2026, 459, 135267.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biortech.2026.135267

Schematic diagram illustrating the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of glucose in starch hydrolysate over ruthenium catalysts to produce sorbitol, highlighting the impact of formic acid and hydroxymethylfurfural impurities.

This study investigates the mechanisms of catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) for converting glucose-rich starch hydrolysate into sorbitol using isopropanol as a hydrogen donor over ruthenium catalysts. While traditional systems use molecular hydrogen, the use of liquid hydrogen donors potentially leads to a greener route. This research evaluates how minor oxygenated impurities - specifically formic acid and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) - impact surface reactions, catalyst site blocking, and overall hydrogen transfer selectivity. Read the full paper in Bioresource Technology (Vol. 459, 135267).

Impact of hydronium ions on the Pd-catalyzed furfural hydrogenation

Yu, I.K.M.; Deng, F.; Chen, X.; Cheng, G.; Liu, Y.; Zhang, W.*; Lercher, J.A.* Nat. Comm., 2022, 13, 7154.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-022-34608-8

This study investigates how aqueous chemical environments influence reaction kinetics during the catalytic hydrogenation of biomass-derived furfural over palladium-on-carbon (Pd/C) catalysts. By evaluating wide variations in hydronium ion activity, the research demonstrates that a Langmuir-Hinshelwood mechanism - where surface-adsorbed hydrogen transfers to the carbonyl carbon - dictates the rate-limiting step rather than a proton-coupled electron transfer pathway. The findings highlight how changing pH directly alters hydrogen binding strength and reaction rates in aqueous-phase biorefinery systems. Read the full paper in Nature Communications (Vol. 13, 7154).

Mechanistic understanding of the catalytic hydrogenation of bio-derived aromatics

Yu, I.K.M.* Green Chem., 2021,23, 9239-9253.

https://doi.org/10.1039/d1gc03037j

Graphical abstract illustrating the mechanistic pathways of catalytic and transfer hydrogenation for upgrading bio-derived aromatics within a biorefinery framework.

This critical review explores the reductive upgrading of bio-based aromatic compounds within a sustainable biorefinery framework. By examining complex metal-reactant interactions, surface binding geometries, and kinetics, this work integrates findings from catalyst evaluations, theoretical calculations, and electrochemical analyses to shed light on the universal descriptors governing catalytic hydrogenation and transfer hydrogenation routes. Read the full review in Green Chemistry (Vol. 23, 9239–9253).

FAQ

1. What is catalytic transfer hydrogenation?

Catalytic transfer hydrogenation (CTH) is a reaction in which hydrogen is transferred from a donor molecule, such as isopropanol, to a target compound using a catalyst. Unlike conventional hydrogenation, CTH does not require high-pressure hydrogen gas, making it a potentially safer and more sustainable approach for biomass conversion and chemical manufacturing.

2. What are hydrogen donors in transfer hydrogenation?

Hydrogen donors are compounds that provide hydrogen during a catalytic reaction. Common examples include isopropanol and other renewable alcohols and organic acids. These compounds can replace molecular hydrogen in certain processes, offering a potentially greener pathway for chemical transformations.

3.What are polyols and why are they important?
Polyols are organic compounds containing multiple hydroxyl (-OH) groups. Common examples include sorbitol, xylitol, mannitol, glycerol, and ethylene glycol. Because of their unique chemical properties, polyols are widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, polymers, and emerging bio-based materials.