Fig. 1: Schematic illustration comparing the electrochemical 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF) synthesis with the conventional thermocatalytic route.

a The conventional thermocatalytic process for BHMF production. The process involves the use of hydrogen supply and precious metal catalysts, and the reaction is carried out under high temperature and pressure. b Electrochemical strategy for BHMF synthesis paired with glycerol oxidation under ambient conditions. The 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) hydrogenation reaction is carried out using water as the source of hydrogen. The extra energy required to derive the chemical transformation can be powered by renewable energy resources.