Efficient process for the conversion of xylose to furfural with acidic ionic liquid

An efficient and simple process for the dehydration of xylose into furfural was studied, which was catalyzed by 1-(4-sulfonic acid)butyl-3-methylimidazolium hydrogen sulfate (IL-1) under mild conditions. A xylose conversion of 95.3% with a furfural yield of 91.45% was achieved in a 25 min reaction time at 150 °C; the xylose conversion and furfural yield greatly depended on the operation conditions, such as reaction time and temperature. IL-1 could be recycled and exhibited constant activity for five successive trials. This system was an important improvement, relative to the reactions using mineral acids at high temperatures, for further development on a pilot scale.