Simultaneous Deoxygenation and Isomerization for Environmentally Sustainable Biofuel Production: A Review of Bifunctional Ni-Based Catalysts

Abstract

The development of cost-effective catalytic systems for producing sustainable aviation fuel and green diesel from biomass-derived feedstocks remains a critical challenge. In this review, Ni-based catalysts are examined as promising alternatives to noble metals, with a focus on their ability to integrate hydrodeoxygenation and hydroisomerization within a single catalytic framework. Rather than reiterating conventional pathways, this work highlights how catalyst design particularly metal–acid bifunctionality, promoter effects, and support framework, leads selectivity toward branched hydrocarbons with desirable fuel properties. Emerging Ni-based phases, including phosphides, carbides, and alloys, are critically assessed in terms of activity, stability, and practical limitations. Furthermore, process strategies combining deoxygenation and hydroisomerization are evaluated with an emphasis on efficiency, hydrogen utilization, and scalability. Key challenges related to catalyst deactivation, real feedstock processing, and industrial deployment are discussed, alongside opportunities in process intensification and reactor design. This review provides a forward-looking perspective on the rational development of robust, scalable Ni-based catalytic systems for next-generation sustainable fuel production.