Preparation of NiO-N/C composites for electrochemical oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid

The electrochemical catalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) derived from biomass to produce 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) has attracted significant attention. Herein, the catalyst NiO-N/C composite was prepared and showed high activity for the electrochemical oxidation of HMF. The optimized NiO-N/C composite electrode supported by foamed nickel exhibits 99% conversion of HMF, 84% yield of FDCA, and 96% faradic efficiency. The NiO-N/C composite electrode is stable and remains active after six consecutive measurements. This work provides an effective method for the design and preparation of biomass energy electrocatalysts based on nitrogen-modulated NiO materials.