One-pot synthesis of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural directly from starch over SO42-/ZrO2-Al2O3 solid catalyst

► Production of HMF from starch is achieved on SO42-/ZrO2-Al2O3 solid catalyst. ► It showed simultaneous catalytic performance for the hydrolysis and dehydration. ► Increasing acidity of catalyst will increase the rate of hydrolysis step. ► High acidity and moderate basicity were most favorable for starch conversion. ► An optimal amount of water for the conversion of starch to HMF was identified.