Influence of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts on glucose conversion to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in an aqueous system

The aqueous phase acid-catalyzed reaction of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) was performed with the addition of alkali and alkaline earth metal salts. Previous studies investigated this reaction in a biphasic system using salts to enhance the partitioning of HMF and suppress undesired products thereby increasing the overall selectivity. The results of this study suggest the presence of alkaline earth salt/glucose interactions that affect glucose conversion and HMF yield. While sulfate salts tended to lead to higher activity than chloride salts, the further addition of HCl led to decreased conversion through a competitive anion effect.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Acidic aqueous phase reaction of glucose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural was examined.
► Alkali and alkaline earth salts influenced glucose reactivity.
► Enhancements in conversion/HMF yield were witnessed regardless of acid use.
► Addition of HCl with MgSO4 led to conversion decrease and selectivity increase.