Graphitic N-Enriched Carbon-Supported Pd Nanoparticles for Efficient Oxidation of Glucose to Gluconic Acid under Mild Conditions

Catalytic oxidation of glucose to gluconic acid under ambient conditions represents a pivotal and sustainable route for valorizing biomass-derived platform molecules into value-added chemicals. While Pd-based catalysts demonstrate promising potential in this reaction, their activity and stability still need to be improved for practical use. Herein, we design a series of N-doped glucose-derived carbon sphere-supported Pd (Pd/N-CS) with precisely regulated N species to enhance the catalytic efficiency. The optimized catalyst, rich in graphitic N, exhibits superior catalytic activity and stability, achieving a glucose conversion of 78.6% with nearly 100% gluconic acid selectivity at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Combined experimental and theoretical analyses reveal that graphitic N not only preserves electron-rich Pd0 species by modulating electron transfer but also promotes the formation of surface OH* species, both of which synergistically enhance glucose oxidation. This work provides deep insights into nitrogen functionality-driven catalysis and offers a rational strategy for designing highly efficient and sustainable catalytic systems for biomass conversion.