Research progress in the production and synthesis of furfural

Furfural is a highly versatile and key derivative used in the manufacture of a wide range of important chemicals.However,it is also associated with low yield,energy-intensive and negative environment impact in conventional process for producing furfural.Current mainstream techniques(Quaker Oats,Agrifuran,Petrole-chimie,Escher Wyss and Rosenlew) for furfural production are reviewed;the mechanism and kinetics of hydrolysis of hemicelluloses into furfural are analyzed.The equipment up to date and alteration for furfural production are also discussed.Besides,new furfural manufacturing-processes are analyzed by optimizing solvent,catalyst,separation and heat-up.In order to minimize the impact of furfural production to environment,the research on new green catalyst and solvent system should be more emphasized.