Selective hydrogenation of levulinic acid to 1,4-pentanediol in water using a hydroxyapatite-supported Pt–Mo bimetallic catalyst

Abstract

Hydroxyapatite-supported Pt–Mo bimetallic nanoparticles (Pt–Mo/HAP) catalyze the selective transformation of levulinic acid to 1,4-pentanediol under aqueous conditions. A concerted effect between Pt nanoparticles and molybdenum oxides facilely promotes the hydrogenation of the intermediates 4-hydroxypentanoic acid and γ-valerolactone to 1,4-pentanediol. The Pt–Mo/HAP catalyst is recoverable and reusable while maintaining its high activity and selectivity.