Bi (NO3)3·5H2O and cellulose mediated Cu-NPs — A highly efficient and novel catalytic system for aerobic oxidation of alcohols to carbonyls and synthesis of DFF from HMF

•Bi (NO3)3·5H2O and Cu-NPs@Cellulose as a versatile catalyst for oxidation of alcohols•Oxidation of 5-hydroxymethyl furfural to 2,5-diformylfuran (82% yield)•Oxidation of secondary aromatic alcohol to ketones with 100% conversion•Very high efficiency, broader functional group tolerance & short reaction time•Primary aromatic alcohols to aldehydes (60–80% conv.)

A highly efficient and versatile catalytic system for oxidation of primary and secondary aromatic alcohols to carbonyls has been developed. High efficiency, general synthetic applicability, broader functional group tolerance and versatility towards oxidation of both primary and secondary aromatic alcohols are the key features of this green and sustainable protocol. Selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (HMF) to biofuel 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) has been observed in excellent yields. Use of sustainable bio-polymer cellulose as a Cu-nanoparticle support makes the catalytic system environmentally benign.

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