METHOD FOR HYDROGENATION OF FURFURAL TO BIO-FUEL

Abstract

A method of hydrogenation includes contacting a catalyst, including rhodium nanoparticles in an amount of 0.9 percent by weight (wt. %) to 1.1 wt. % based on the total weight of the catalyst supported on alumina, with furfural in the presence of ethanol to form a reaction mixture. The method further includes heating the reaction mixture at a pressure, at a temperature, and for a time, in a hydrogen gas atmosphere to form a hydrogenated product including furfuryl ethyl ether. At least 99 wt. % of the furfural is reacted to form the furfuryl ethyl ether and the furfuryl ethyl ether is formed with at least a 99 wt. % selectivity.

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