Gamma-valerolactone (GVL), which is accessible from renewable lignocellulosic biomass, has been identified as one of the most promising platforms for the sustainable production of fuels and value-added chemicals. This review aims at recent advances in the catalytic production of GVL from biomass and further upgrading of GVL to fuels as well as value-added chemicals. The first part briefly reviews recent advances for the production of GVL from biomass. The second and third sections critically review and identify current technologies for the efficient production of GVL. The mechanism, different types of advanced homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts employed have been compared and broadly categorized. Challenges and areas that need improvement are also highlighted in the corresponding area. The fourth section concentrates on potential applications and the upgrading of GVL to fuel additives, diesel fuels and value-added chemicals. The final section offers a summary and future perspective in the field.

Catalytic reactions of gamma-valerolactone: A platform to fuels and value-added chemicals