Isomerization of d-glucose into d-fructose with a heterogeneous catalyst in organic solvents
Résumé
The isomerization of d-glucose into d-fructose was investigated in view to afford carbohydrate source for the production of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) without the use of toxic metallic catalyst. The process uses a basic heterogeneous catalyst in organic solvent mixtures to lead up to 72% selectivity of d-fructose for 68% conversion of d-glucose. The catalyst has been recycled four times with little decrease of the selectivity. The resulting carbohydrates solution can be directly dehydrated to afford HMF.