Recent progress in transition-metal-based electrocatalysts for the upgrading of biomass-derived ketone-alcohol oil to adipic acid

Adipic acid is an important platform molecule for the production of nylon polymers. Production of adipic acid via electrocatalytic technology has shown significant advantages compared to traditional thermochemical synthesis processes, particularly in facilitating biomass-derived feedstock upgrading and concurrently generating green hydrogen. This review provides a timely overview of recent progress in the rational design of electrocatalysts for the oxidation of biomass-derived ketone-alcohol (KA) oil to adipic acid (AA). The multi-step reaction mechanism of ketone-alcohol oxidation to adipic acid is discussed first, followed by a systematic evaluation of advanced transition-metal electrocatalysts (oxides, hydroxides, and oxyhydroxides). We highlight how modifications (i.e., defect engineering, cation doping, surfactant modification, and carbon composite materials) optimize the electronic structures and coordination environments of inorganic active sites for improved catalytic performance. Finally, we provide a summary of the remaining challenges and future prospects. By bridging fundamental chemical principles with sustainable applications, this review provides a roadmap for the efficient electro-synthesis of high-value chemicals.