Insights into the activity, selectivity and stability of heterogeneous catalysts in the continuous flow hydroconversion of furfural

Abstract

The continuous flow hydroconversion of furfural to a range of furanic derivatives was carried out using a range of metal-containing heterogeneous catalysts in order to provide insights into the reaction pathways for the hydrogenation of furfural. Most of the catalysts used provided excellent furfural conversion (>60%) and varying selectivities to products at mild temperatures (90 °C), including furfuryl alcohol (FA), 2-methylfuran (2-MF), 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MTHF) and furanic intermediates, depending on the flow conditions and the investigated catalyst.