Optimization Of Furfural Production From Xylose By Rsm Using Chromium Sulfate As Catalyst

Optimization of chromium sulfate catalyzed conversion conditions of xylose into furfural was studied by response surface methodology (RSM). A central composite design (CCD) was used to determine the effects of independent variables, including temperature (120-160 degrees C), time (30-150min), catalyst loading (1-5mmol) and moles of xylose (2.5-12.5mmol) on furfural yield, xylose conversion and solid residue. The surface response analysis revealed that temperature, time, catalyst loading and moles of xylose had a strong influence on the furfural yield, whereas moles of xylose was found to be not significant for xylose conversion. The solid residue was affected by temperature, time and moles of xylose. The maximum predicted furfural yield was 45.07% at temperature of 150 degrees C, time of 120min, catalyst loading of 2mmol and moles of xylose of 10mmol. Under this condition, xylose conversion could be reached 100%.