Metal-acid interfaces enveloped in zeolite crystals for cascade biomass hydrodeoxygenation

A wide scope of catalytic reactions require combined steps to realize a one-pot transformation over multi-functional catalysts, but their synergism is still insufficient. Here, it is demonstrated a methodology for synergizing different active sites by enveloping the sulfonic acid group and Pd nanoparticles within FAU zeolite crystals (Pd<^>SO3H@Y). This approach realizes the geometrically closest Pd nanoparticles with acid sites immobilized by the zeolite framework, forming metal-acid interfaces to strengthen the cascade catalysis. In the model reaction of hydrodeoxygenation of furfural, a process for upgrading the biomass-derived oxygenate, the Pd<^>SO3H@Y exhibits methyl furan selectivity for 99.3% with complete conversion of furfural, which steadily outperforms catalytic properties of the generally supported catalysts. More importantly, the rigid zeolite crystals stabilize the metal-acid interfaces, achieving stable catalytic performances in the continuously recycle tests.