High conversion of xylose to furfural over corncob residue-based solid acid catalyst in water-methyl isobutyl ketone

In order to improve the high-value utilization of raw materials in furfural production, a solid acid catalyst based on corncob residue (S-IRCC) was synthesized using the method of impregnation–carbonization–sulfonation. The impregnation of FeCl3 makes S-IRCC exhibit excellent surface area and catalytic activity, and S-IRCC possessing -COOH, phenolic -OH, and -SO3H groups. The effects of reaction conditions on furfural yield, xylose concentration, and furfural selectivity were investigated. It was found that the addition of NaCl would improve furfural yield in water- methyl isobutyl ketone system. Optimal furfural yield (73.64%) and selectivity (74.2%) were obtained for 1:1 xylose/catalyst ratio (w/w) at 190 °C for 60 min in 1:2 water–methyl isobutyl ketone (v/v) with 60 g/L NaCl. In addition, with the regeneration, the catalyst activity is easily restored to its original level. Hence, bio-carbon-based catalyst shows potential application value in furfural production and biomass utilization.