A Sol–Gel Strategy-Constructed Co/La 2 O 3 Catalyst for Highly Efficient Furfural Hydrogenation to 1,5-Pentanediol: Role of LaH x

The selective catalytic hydrogenation of furfural to 1,5-pentanediol (1,5-PeD) is a transformation of important scientific significance. This process proceeds through the initial hydrogenation of furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFA), followed by selective cleavage of the C–O bond at the C2 position mediated by active sites on the catalyst surface. However, precise control of C–O bond cleavage remains a major challenge, often resulting in undesired byproducts such as 1,2-pentanediol (1,2-PeD). Herein, a Co4/La2O3-CA-850 catalyst rich in oxygen vacancies (Ov) and LaHx species was synthesized via a citric acid (CA) sol–gel method. After high-temperature reduction with H2, a well-defined interfacial structure of Co–La2O3 emerged, and it played a critical role in the catalytic process. This interface effectively adsorbed oxygen atoms from THFA and enabled selective activation of the C2 site through hydrogen species (H–) derived from LaHx, facilitating highly efficient C2–O2 bond cleavage. Mechanistic study also clearly demonstrated the reaction pathway. Finally, the catalytic system realized a 64.9% yield of 1,5-PeD. These findings underscore the potential application of Co/La2O3-based catalysts for biomass upgrading and establish a sustainable, environmentally benign route for 1,5-PeD preparation.