Catalytic conversion of fructose to 1,3-dihydroxyacetone under mild conditions

Abstract

A novel zwitterionic catalyst containing imidazole, carboxyl and amino functional groups was synthesized to catalyze the retro-aldol condensation of fructose. The catalyst displayed efficiently catalytic activity for the conversion of fructose to 1,3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA). The yield of DHA and selectivity of DHA achieved 27.9% and 46.5% after reaction 2 h, respectively, at pH 9.5, 85 °C. A possible catalytic mechanism was suggested. The charged functional groups on the catalyst exhibited synergistic effect and played role in electron induction and proton transfer, which leaded to a good selectivity of DHA in the conversion of fructose under mild conditions.