Inverse ZrO2/Co Catalyst Enables Robust and Efficient Glucose Hydrogenation

Non-noble metal-based catalysts are promising candidates for efficient glucose hydrogenation. However, their practical application remains challenging due to limited intrinsic activity and poor stability. Herein, we demonstrate that the inverse catalyst featuring zirconium oxide nano-islands immobilized on a metallic Co matrix exhibits superior activity compared to the conventional supported catalyst. The optimal ZrO 2 /Co catalyst achieves an outstanding sorbitol productivity of 37.6 g Sor g Cat -1 h -1 and displays excellent reusability over 11 consecutive runs. Kinetic studies and comprehensive characterizations uncover that the inverse Zr-Co interface enriches oxygen vacancies and synergistically modulates the adsorption of glucose and hydrogen, thereby prompting the selective hydrogenation of carbonyl groups. This work offers a rational design strategy for developing high-performance and durable inverse catalysts for biomass hydrogenation.