Optimization of glucose conversion to 5-hydroxymethylfulfural using [BMIM]Cl with ytterbium triflate

5-Hydroxymethylfulfural (5-HMF) is a versatile compound obtained from renewable resources such as agricultural residue and biodegradable waste. 5-HMF has potentials to replace fuel-based petroleum and fine chemicals. Glucose, a monosaccharide is often used as a model compound to produce 5-HMF from biomass material. This study focused on glucose dehydration to produce 5-HMF by using ytterbium triflate and [BMIM]Cl as catalyst and solvent, respectively. Response surface methodology (RSM) based on central composite design (CCD) was employed to investigate effect of important process parameters and to optimize glucose dehydration process. The interaction effects between reaction temperature, time and catalyst loading towards 5-HMF yield was discussed. Effect of temperature was profoundly significant on the yield. The optimum conditions for dehydration of glucose for reaction temperature = 105 °C, reaction time = 2.7 h and catalyst loading = 39.7 mg obtained 52% of 5-HMF yield. The experimental optimum yield fitted-well with the predicted value with less than 5% error.

► We model an equation for glucose conversion into 5-HMF by using Response Surface Methodology.
► Explanation about interaction among variables for glucose conversion and 5-HMF yields.
► Verified optimum conditions obtained from equation with additional experimental data.
► Provide possible reaction mechanism that might occurred in the process.