Condensation of biomass derived furfural with acetone over NaAlO2 promoted Mg–Al mixed oxides under microwave irradiation

The selective synthesis of long-chain oxyfuel intermediates by the condensation of hemicellulose-derived furfural with acetone over NaAlO 2 -promoted Mg Al mixed oxides under solvent-free microwave irradiation has been reported. A series of MgAl-SA-x catalyst samples were obtained by impregnating different weight percentages (Wt%) of NaAlO 2 over Mg Al hydrotalcite (HT) followed by calcination. The resulting catalysts were characterized using PXRD, BET, SEM-EDX, FT-IR, and CO 2 -TPD techniques to evaluate changes in morphology, texture, and basicity. The catalytic activity of the MgAl-SA-x samples was assessed in the condensation of biomass-derived furfural with acetone under microwave heating. The effects of catalyst amount, mole ratio, reaction time, and reaction temperature on conversion and selectivity to 4-(2-furanyl)-3-buten-2-one (FAc) were studied to optimize the reaction conditions. Among the prepared catalyst samples, the 15 wt% sodium aluminate impregnated catalyst (MgAl-SA-15) exhibited maximal furfural conversion with 93 % selectivity towards FAc under milder reaction conditions. Moreover, the use of microwave irradiation has been propitious in enhancing the reaction rate under shortened reaction times. The condensation of furfural with acetone over NaAlO 2 -promoted Mg Al mixed oxides under solvent-free microwave irradiation was investigated. MgAl-SA-x catalysts were characterized and optimized to enhance conversion and selectivity. • Sustainable approach for Aldol condensation was developed over NaAlO 2 promoted Mg Al MMO. • The MgAl-SA-x catalysts proved to be active catalysts for this reaction. • MgAl-SA-x showed max furfural conversion, with 93 % FAc selectivity under mild conditions. • High product selectivity achieved was attributed to the basicity of the catalysts. • Use of microwave, contribute to enhanced reaction rate under shortened reaction time.