Catalytic Isomerization of Biomass‐Derived Aldoses: A Review

Selected aldohexoses (d‐glucose, d‐mannose, and d‐galactose) and aldopentoses (d‐xylose, l‐arabinose, and d‐ribose) are readily available components of biopolymers. Isomerization reactions of these substances are very attractive as carbon‐efficient processes to broaden the portfolio of abundant monosaccharides. This review focuses on the chemocatalytic isomerization of aldoses into the corresponding ketoses as well as epimerization of aldoses at C2. Recent advances in the fields of catalysis by bases and Lewis acids are considered. The emphasis is laid on newly uncovered catalytic systems and mechanisms of carbohydrate transformations.