Energy-efficient strategy for MoS2-MoO3/N-Doped CNT catalyst: Unique morphology and high performance in DFF synthesis

The transformation of carbohydrates into valuable fuels and chemicals has attracted considerable interest because of its promising and ecologically friendly characteristics. Thus, many studies have highlighted the latest advancements in the direct one-pot conversion of biomass-based fructose into 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF). Herein, we introduced an innovative structure of MoS2-MoO3 anchored onto a nitrogen-doped hair-like carbon nanotube framework derived from the pyrolysis of melamine. The MoS2-MoO3/N-CNT was successfully synthesized via a facile molten salt strategy (MSS). The morphology, composition, and properties of the catalyst were comprehensively investigated. The MoS2-MoO3/N-CNT catalyst was employed to synthesize DFF efficiently through a “one-pot, one-step” process, and the impact of various synthetic conditions was systematically analyzed. Consequently, the MoS2-MoO3/N-CNT exhibited remarkable activity in the synthesis of DFF from biomass-based fructose, achieving a notable yield of approximately 95 % DFF with 95 % selectivity and 100 % fructose conversion under optimal experimental conditions. Additionally, the oxidation of HMF to DFF using MoS2-MoO3/N-CNT achieved an impressive 98.7 % DFF yield within 7 h, and the activation energy was 150.33 kJ mol−1. Our research offers a novel perspective for future exploration of heterogeneous catalysts based on nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes for DFF synthesis. The procedure developed is straightforward, eco-friendly, and efficient, making it appealing for industrial applications.