CuZn@N‑doped graphene layer for upgrading of furfural to furfuryl alcohol

• A strategy for constructing Cu-Zn embedded in N‑doped graphene sheet. • Robust activity for the upgrading of furfural to furfuryl alcohol. • Synergistic effect of Zn and Cu endow the catalyst well activity. The upgrading of furfural to furfuryl alcohol is still a challenge due to the multiple conversion pathways of furfural. Herein, an efficient Zn doped Cu@NG catalyst (Cu, Zn anchored in N‑doped graphene layer) was built through one-pot ammonia evaporation strategy. The characterization and experimental results confirmed that the introduction of Zn promotes the dispersion of Cu nanoparticles, thus improving the activity of the catalyst; On the other hand, the side reaction of decarbonylation is inhibited, thereby improving the selectivity of the furfuryl alcohol. The above two aspects endows the catalyst excellent catalytic performance. Under the optimal reaction conditions, the yield of furfuryl alcohol is close to 99.0%, and the catalyst showed robust stability in the process of five recycles, which makes it has a great industrial application prospect.