Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation of Furfural over Co3O4-Al2O3 Hydrotalcite-derived Catalyst

The hydrogenation of furfural by catalytic hydrogen transfer to produce furfuryl alcohol has been investigated over a series of mixed oxides derived from hydrotalcite catalysts. Three different catalysts containing Ni, Co and Zn phases on an Al-rich amorphous support were synthesized and characterised. The catalytic performances were evaluated in a batch stirred reactor using 2-propanol as a solvent and hydrogen donor, with Co3O4-Al2O3 showing the highest activity and selectivity to FA (74 % yield; 97 % selectivity). The effects of temperature (T=120-180 degrees C) and reaction time (t=30 min-24 h) were also studied, reaching a FA maximum yield of 92 % at 150 degrees C after 24 h. The Co3O4-Al2O3 catalyst showed a loss of activity after the first run, which can be easily restored by a simple calcination treatment. The results establish a catalytic route to produce valuable furfuryl alcohol over 3d-transition metal-based catalysts without any external hydrogen supply.