Polyoxometalates as Catalysts for Biomass Conversion: Properties, Applications, and Regenerability

acid catalysis biomass catalytic process polyoxometalates redox catalysis

Authors

  • Haryo P. Winoto
    haryowinoto@itb.ac.id
    Chemical Engineering Department, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
  • Rezky O. Anggaswara Chemical Engineering Department, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
  • Dian H. Wahyudi Division of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
  • Rino R. Mukti Center for Catalysis and Reaction Engineering, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
  • Veinardi Suendo Division of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
  • Ismunandar Ismunandar Division of Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
December 1, 2025
February 20, 2026

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Polyoxometalates (POMs) have emerged as exceptionally versatile catalysts for green chemical reactions, demonstrating significant potential in the sustainable valorization of biomass. Their tunable Brønsted/Lewis acidity and redox properties enable a broad range of chemical transformations, offering remarkable flexibility in process design. This mini review provides a summary of recent advances in the thermocatalytic conversion of biomass using POMs, addressing their utilization as both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts. Key reaction pathways, including solvolysis, oxidation, esterification, and condensation, are highlighted as fundamental processes in biomass valorization. A central focus is placed on the crucial challenge of catalyst regenerability and stability, examining strategies to ensure the long-term viability and economic feasibility of these systems while facing the apparent low-temperature stability challenge of POMs. Finally, this review synthesizes current regeneration methods and presents a forward-looking perspective on the future challenges and opportunities in the field of biomass conversion catalyzed by polyoxometalates.