Zeolite-catalyzed acetalization reaction of furfural with alcohol under solvent-free conditions

•Commercial zeolites were used as catalysts for acetalization of furfural with alcohols.•High yield (96.3%) of furfural acetal was obtained when 1,3-propanediol was reacted with furfural at 80 °C for 6 h.•No obvious deactivation present after using six times.•Appropriate acidic sites and textural structure are important for improving activity.