Niobium-catalyzed reactions to add value to renewable raw material: a review of unsupported and supported catalysts

Abstract A wide range of niobium-based materials is described in the literature as efficient catalysts. The versatility of niobium catalysts prepared by different synthesis methods results in diverse compounds with unique characteristics that are active in producing high-added value compounds such as agrochemicals, fragrances, solvents, and building blocks in organic synthesis. Moreover, niobium catalysts have been used to convert biomass resources to biofuels. In this review, recent advances achieved in niobium-catalyzed reactions to add value to renewable feedstocks are discussed. The main goal was to explore how the physicochemical properties of niobium-based solid materials, prepared through various methods, influence their performance in acid-catalyzed reactions and oxidative processes. This understanding can help meet the industry’s increasing demand for sustainable and efficient processes to produce high-value chemicals from inexpensive, abundant, and renewable raw materials. The review covers processes using unsupported niobium catalysts (such as niobium oxide, phosphate, and sulfated forms) and solid-supported niobium catalysts (such as mesoporous silica, zeolite, carbon, alumina, and mordenite). Graphical abstract Niobium catalyzed biomass conversion to platform molecules.