Current perspectives on microwave-enhanced reactions of monosaccharides promoted by heterogeneous catalysts

Involvement of heterogeneous catalysts as promoters of carbohydrate conversions, in synergy with microwaves as the heating source, is reported. This paper deals with the application of ion-exchange resins, zeolites, clays and metal oxides as convenient mediators for key transformations of carbohydrates. A special emphasis is placed on the use of (doped) mineral supports, in solventless conditions, as clean promoters in combination with microwave dielectric heating. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.