Abstract

In this study, the production of furfural and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from sugars e.g. xylose and glucose, and agricultural wastes e.g. corncob, rice straw and wheat straw were examined in the presence of boron-doped biochar catalysts, boric acid and an ionic liquid, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([emim]Cl). Boron-doped trapa shell biochar (BTB) and coconut shell biochar (BCB) catalysts were synthesized via the wet impregnation method. Fourier transform infrared spectra of biochar catalysts showed a band for BO stretching vibrations confirming successful boron impregnation. Furfural and HMF yields from glucose reached 32% and 40%, respectively. One-pot hydrolysis-dehydration conversion of corncob, rice straw and wheat straw resulted in yields of up to 12% and 21% for furfural and HMF, respectively. In addition, catalyst reusability up to 4 cycles was demonstrated with less than 5% variation in HMF yield. Overall, the results of the study offer new insights and great potential in the conversion of waste biomass to high value platform chemicals for energy applications.

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