A sulfated ZrO2 hollow nanostructure as an acid catalyst in the dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/cssc.201300416

Mesoporous hollow colloidal particles with well-defined characteristics have potential use in many applications. In liquid-phase catalysis, in particular, they can provide a large active surface area, reduced diffusion resistance, improved accessibility to reactants, and excellent dispersity in reaction media. Herein, we report the tailored synthesis of sulfated ZrO ₂ hollow nanostructures and their catalytic applications in the dehydration of fructose. ZrO₂ hollow nanoshells with controllable thickness were first synthesized through a robust sol-gel process. Acidic functional groups were further introduced to the surface of hollow ZrO ₂ shells by sulfuric acid treatment followed by calcination. The resulting sulfated ZrO₂ hollow particles showed advantageous properties for liquid-phase catalysis, such as well-maintained structural integrity, good dispersity, favorable mesoporosity, and a strongly acidic surface. By controlling the synthesis and calcination conditions and optimizing the properties of sulfated ZrO₂ hollow shells, we have been able to design superacid catalysts with superior performance in the dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymethyfurfural than the solid sulfated ZrO₂ nanocatalyst. Core of the matter: Sulfated ZrO₂ hollow shells with favorable mesoporosity, excellent dispersity in liquid media, and a strongly acidic surface show significantly enhanced catalytic activity toward the dehydration of fructose to 5-hydroxymethylfufural (see picture). Copyright