An Integrated Process for Catalytical Conversion of Simple Sugars into Platform Chemicals, HMF and FDCA: Catalysis, Continuous Flow Reactor Design, Valorization of Waste By-Product

The catalytic conversion of monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose, into bio-based platform chemicals plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable chemical production. 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) are particularly valuable due to their potential as renewable substitutes for petroleum-derived chemicals. Efficient catalytic processes for converting glucose and fructose into these high-value compounds are vital for enhancing biomass valorization and reducing reliance on fossil resources. This dissertation focuses on the development of efficient catalytic systems for the selective conversion of glucose and fructose to HMF, followed by its oxidation to FDCA. Carbon-based acid catalysts were developed by acids (sulfuric acid, nitric acid) treatment for the dehydration of sugars to HMF in a biphasic reaction system, while Mn-based catalysts, synthesized via the mechanochemical Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) method, were employed for the selective oxidation of HMF to FDCA. The physicochemical properties of these catalysts were systematically characterized to establish structure-activity relationships. Initial catalytic activity, selectivity, reaction conditions, and stability were rigorously evaluated in batch reactors. The performance and long-term stability of the catalysts under continuous operation were also assessed to determine their viability for practical applications. Key experimental parameters, including reaction temperature, feed flow rate, initial feedstock concentration, and catalyst loading, were further investigated to optimize the process. Additionally, a series of separation and purification techniques, including extraction, solvent distillation, column filtration, and recrystallization, were developed to isolate and purify both the intermediate HMF and the final product FDCA. The study also explored the formation of humin by-products during HMF production. Methods for separating and valorizing humin as a biomass-derived wood adhesive were investigated, offering a sustainable approach to utilizing by-products generated during the process. This work provides valuable insights into the efficient conversion of renewable sugars into bio-based chemicals, advancing the understanding of catalyst design, reaction engineering, and by-product management.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph D

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Chemical and Biochemical Engineering

Grantor dc:publisher

The University of Western Ontario

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Shen, Taizong

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Barghi, Shahzad

• Catalytic conversion
• glucose
• fructose
• 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF)
• 2
• 5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA)
• carbon-based catalysts
• biphasic reaction system
• Mn-based oxide catalysts
• Metal-Organic Framework (MOF)
• batch reactors
• continuous-flow reactor
• separation
• purification
• catalyst deactivation
• biomass-derived wood adhesive

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14721/38817

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:uwo.scholaris.ca:20.500.14721/38817