Through catalytic transformations such as dehydration, hydrogenation, oxidation, isomerization, reforming, ketonization, and aldol condensation over heterogeneous catalysts, a number of platform molecules derived from biomass, such as glucose, furans, levulinic acid, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and acetic acids, can be transformed into a variety of value-added chemicals. Given the high water content of the biomass and the creation of water during the catalytic conversion process, aqueous-phase processing is a significant concern and a major obstacle for the heterogeneous catalytic conversion of biobased compounds. Noble metal catalysts, non-noble metal catalysts, bimetallic catalysts, metal oxides, and zeolite are among the heterogeneous catalysts that are applicable to the aqueous-phase conversion process of biomass platform chemicals in this paper. A thorough evaluation of the catalyst performance, including the catalytic activity, stability, and regeneration performance of various types of heterogeneous catalysts, is also made. In addition, we emphasised the deactivation process in the aqueous phase and the impact of water on heterogeneous catalysts. To further aid in understanding the reaction process occurring on the surface of catalysts in the aqueous phase and to aid in the design of focused catalysts, a number of catalytic processes of aqueous-phase conversion over heterogeneous catalysts are presented. Finally, there is hope for biobased chemicals and energy.
