Polyoxometalates (POMs) are a fascinating group of anionic metal-oxide clusters with a broad variety of structural properties and several catalytic applications, especially in the conversion of bio-derived platform chemicals. H8 [PV5 Mo7 O40 ] (HPA-5) is a unique POM catalyst that ideally links numerous fascinating research fields for the following reasons: a) HPA-5 can be synthesized by rational design approaches; b) HPA-5 can be well characterized using multiple analytical tools explaining its catalytic properties; and c) HPA-5 is suitable for multiple important catalytic transformations of bio-based feedstock. This Review combines the fields of synthesis, spectroscopic, electrochemical, and crystallographic characterization of HPA-5 with those of sustainable catalysis and green chemistry. Selected catalytic applications include esterification, dehydration, and delignification of biomass as well as selective oxidation and fractionation of bio-based feedstock. The unique HPA-5 is a fascinating POM that has a broad application scope for biomass valorization.
Keywords: RedOx catalysis; acid catalysis; characterization; polyoxometalates; synthesis.
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