LAUSR

γ-valerolactone (GVL), derived from renewable lignocellulosic biomass, has been considered as a cost-competitive and green platform chemical. With the increasingly prominent environmental problems, the deep study of GVL is highly needed. Based on the latest progress in GVL, the preparation and application of GVL are summarized and discussed in this review. In particular, the state of art in catalytic production of GVL was described based on the use of noble-metal and non-noble metal catalysts, respectively. The application of GVL for the valorization of lignocellulose would improve the yield of target products such as sugar monomer and furfural. Thus, GVL can be produced from lignocellulose, and simultaneously it can also be used for the valorization of lignocellulose, just like the sustainable and renewable cycle "the falling leaves returns to their roots". This review is expected to provide valuable reference and new proposal for the further development and better utilization of GVL.