Transformation of biomass via the selective hydrogenolysis of CO bonds by nanoscale metal catalysts

► CO bond hydrogenolysis is essential for biomass utilization. ► Demonstrations of nanoscale metal catalysts that are active for CO scission. ► Mechanistic consideration of CO bond hydrogenolysis over NP catalysts. ► Barriers that need to be overcome for the use of nanoscale metal catalysts in the selective hydrogenolysis of CO bond.