Catalytic conversion of fructose into furans using FeCl3 as catalyst

Conversion of fructose into furan derivates 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and 5-ethoxymethylfurfural (EMF) was performed in ethanol-[Bmim]Cl solvent systems, catalyzed by FeCl3. HMF was obtained in a high yield of 90.8% for 4 h at 100 °C in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazole chloride ([Bmim]Cl). The ratio of [Bmim]Cl to ethanol showed a remarkable effect on the yields of HMF and EMF. The maximum EMF yield of 30.1% was obtained in a mixed solvent of [Bmim]Cl (0.5 g) and ethanol (4.5 g). On the meanwhile, HMF was obtained in a yield of 60.3%.