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5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) is often referred to as a dormant powerhouse within the realm of biomass-derived platform chemicals, owing to its wide-ranging potential applications. Its extraction primarily depends on sugars and biomass not designated for food. However, the techniques currently in place for its production are hindered by issues like inefficient selectivity and conversion rates that are less than ideal. There is ongoing research aimed at enhancing catalytic systems and methods for a more effective transformation of polysaccharides into 5-HMF[1]. Progress in directly generating 5-HMF from a variety of raw biomass sources, including both edible and inedible lignocellulosic biomasses as well as food waste, has been noteworthy. This review underscores the necessity of pinpointing processes and catalytic systems capable of navigating around obstacles that stand in the way of widespread commercial use. The utilization of both edible and inedible lignocellulosic biomass as raw materials for producing 5-HMF is highlighted as a sustainable option, aiding in the shift towards a chemical industry that is kinder to the environment[2]. Advances have also been achieved in converting 5-HMF into valuable end products, such as fuels, fuel additives, and various commercial chemicals. These conversion processes encompass a variety of chemical reactions, including hydrogenation, oxidation, aldol condensation, rehydration, amination, polymerization, etherification, and decarbonylation. This diverse array of chemical modifications underscores the adaptability of 5-HMF and its contribution towards minimizing reliance on fossil fuels and reducing CO2 emissions. The review further elaborates on different catalysts and their significance in these transformations, providing a glimpse into how 5-HMF can be leveraged for the production of bio-based chemicals and fuels[3].

References 

1. Li, J., Zhang, R., Li, X., Qiao, Y., Lu, X., & Xiong, J. "Catalytic Systems for 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural Preparation from Different Biomass Feedstocks: A Review." Catalysts, 2024, 14(1), 30. MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/catal14010030.

2. Menegazzo, F., Ghedini, E., & Signoretto, M. "5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) Production from Real Biomasses." Molecules, 2018, 23(9), 2201. MDPI. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23092201.

3. Jiang, Z., Zeng, Y., Hu, D., Guo, R., Yan, K., & Luque, R. "Chemical transformations of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into highly added value products: present and future." Green Chemistry, 2023, 25, 871-892. Royal Society of Chemistry. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2022/gc/d2gc03444a.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H315 (67.1%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H319 (68.39%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

• H335 (91.61%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

• H412 (73.23%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem