Mechanistic Insights into the Role of Elements in Ni‐Co‐P Catalysts for Electrochemical Conversion of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid

Abstract Ni phosphides and NiCo alloys are extensively explored for their remarkable efficiency in biomass alcohol oxidations, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. This study thoroughly elucidates the roles of Ni, Co, and P in improving the catalytic performance of Ni‐Co‐P catalysts for the electrochemical conversion of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), a promising biomass‐derived building block replacing terephthalic acid. Phosphorization of Ni results in the partial formation of Ni 2 P phase and significantly boosts the formation of the reactive NiOOH phase on the surface, which is the crucial catalytic phase for converting HMF into FDCA. The integration of Co into the heterojunction between Ni 2 P and NiOOH enhances the oxidation reactivity of 5‐formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (FFCA), a pivotal intermediate influencing FDCA prod…