Low-loading PdPt catalysts for highly selective furfural hydrogenation at ambient temperature

Bimetallic Pd–Pt nanoparticles supported on TiO₂ (PdxPty/TiO2) were synthesized via the sol immobilization method using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a stabilizer, enabling precise control over particle size and dispersion. This method also circumvents the need for pre-reduction treatments by stabilizing metals in reduced oxidation states. HAADF-STEM analyses confirmed the formation of highly dispersed, nano-alloyed Pd–Pt particles with Pt enrichment at the surface. Catalytic testing in furfural (FF) hydrogenation under ambient conditions revealed a pronounced synergistic effect in bimetallic formulations, particularly Pd1Pt1, which achieved complete FF conversion within 30 min and tunable selectivity between furfuryl alcohol (FA) and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFA). Systematic variation of Pd:Pt ratios demonstrated composition-dependent product distribution: Pd-rich catalysts favored THFA, while Pt-rich ones enhanced FA yields and carbon balance. Reaction parameter studies revealed that selectivity can be steered via hydrogen pressure, with low pressure favoring FA (82 % yield at 3 bar) and high pressure promoting THFA (76 % yield at 20 bar). The Pd2Pt1 catalyst demonstrated excellent recyclability over four cycles without performance loss, confirming its robustness. These results offer valuable insights into the structure–activity–selectivity relationship in Pd–Pt nanoalloy systems and establish a tunable, sustainable platform for bio-based chemical valorization under mild conditions.