Catalytic Biomass Depolymerization and Conversion to High-Value Fuels and Chemicals

Dear Colleagues,

The urgent need for sustainable energy systems and environmentally friendly chemical production has intensified global interest in biomass as a renewable feedstock. Biomass depolymerization and catalytic conversion represent promising strategies for transforming abundant lignocellulosic resources, agricultural residues, and biowaste into high‑value fuels and platform chemicals. Recent advancements in catalytic science, reaction engineering, biomass pretreatment, and process intensification have opened new opportunities to improve efficiency, selectivity, and scalability in biomass valorization.

This Special Issue focuses on state‑of‑the‑art research and emerging technologies related to catalytic approaches for biomass depolymerization and downstream conversion. We welcome innovative contributions that enhance our fundamental understanding, promote green chemistry principles, and support the development of circular bio‑economy pathways.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Catalytic depolymerization of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose;
• Development of heterogeneous, homogeneous, enzymatic, and hybrid catalyst systems;
• Novel catalytic pathways for bio‑oil upgrading and biofuel production;
• Reaction mechanisms and structure–activity relationships;
• Advanced biomass pretreatment and fractionation methods enabling efficient catalysis;
• Conversion of biomass-derived intermediates to platform chemicals;
• Process intensification, reactor design, and scale‑up strategies;
• Integrated biorefinery concepts and techno‑economic or life‑cycle analysis.

Prof. Dr. Changwei Hu
Dr. Qiying Liu
Prof. Dr. Jianmei Li
Guest Editors

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