Catalysis and Chemical Engineering Global Conference

Furan chemistry is an area of sustainable chemistry focused on transforming furans—one class of heterocyclic compounds derived from biomass—into valuable chemicals and materials. Due to their unique chemical properties, furans serve as ideal building blocks for bio-based fuels, plastics, and specialty chemicals, supporting the shift towards a more sustainable, renewable chemical industry. This session will cover the principles and applications of furan chemistry, illustrating how bio-based compounds can enable greener and more efficient chemical processes.

Traditionally, furans have been derived from carbohydrates in biomass sources, including agricultural waste and lignocellulosic biomass. With catalytic processes, these biomass sources can be converted into furan-based compounds, where furfural and HMF serve as versatile intermediates in chemical synthesis. For instance, furan derivatives like furfural can be transformed into biofuels, solvents, and resins, while HMF-based plastics and polymers are manufactured. These furan derivatives sustainably replace their petroleum-based counterparts, contributing daily to reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

One of the main advantages of furan chemistry is its alignment with green chemistry principles. Processes based on furans typically require milder conditions and produce fewer toxic by-products than traditional chemical routes, making this field a significant area of interest. Additionally, using renewable biomass feedstocks supports the concept of a circular economy, where resources are continuously circulated and reused, reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact. This makes furan chemistry an appealing option for companies seeking sustainable chemical solutions.

Catalysis plays a prominent role in furan chemistry by enabling efficient conversion of biomass-derived compounds into high-value products. Various catalysts are being developed to optimize reactions, increase selectivity, and accelerate reaction rates. For example, acid catalysts are used in the dehydration of sugars to produce furfural, while metal-based catalysts allow for the hydrogenation of furfural into biofuels. These advancements in catalytic methods make furan chemistry more efficient and scalable, making it ideal for application across numerous industries.