Transformation of Glucose into HMF and Furfural in Hydrothermal Reaction Conditions

This study focused on the conversion of glucose into high-value chemicals, specifically furfural (FFR) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), through hydrothermal reaction processes. Glucose was decomposed under subcritical water conditions (160-220 °C) in a Teflon-lined stainless-steel reactor, and the evolution of FFR and HMF products was examined over residence times ranging from 30 to 210 minutes. The highest yields of FFR and HMF were achieved at a temperature of 220 °C and a residence time of 180 minute. Increasing the temperature from 160°C to 220°C and extending the residence time from 30 to 180 minutes enhanced the hydrolysis of glucose. The yields of FFR and HMF were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).