One-pot synthesis of 2,5-diformylfuran from fructose using a bifunctional catalyst derived from phosphomolybdic acid and chitosan

Abstract

The catalytic conversion of biomass into high-value chemicals, such as furan derivatives, from 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) holds significant importance. In this study, a bifunctional catalyst prepared from phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) and chitosan was developed for the one-pot synthesis of 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) from fructose. This approach offered the advantage of bypassing the solvent consumption and cost associated with HMF separation and purification for DFF production. The catalytic activity of the prepared catalyst primarily originated from the loaded PMA. Under optimized reaction conditions, the catalyst achieved a DFF yield of approximately 60% after a 6-h reaction at 150 °C or a 1-h reaction at 170 °C. Moreover, the catalyst exhibited good stability and reusability. These results highlight the potential of the bifunctional catalyst for efficient and cost-effective conversion of fructose into DFF, enabling practical applications in the production of valuable chemicals from bioresources.