Activity of continuous flow synthesized Pd-based nanocatalysts in the flow hydroconversion of furfural

Abstract A number of synthesized supported Pd nanomaterials on aluminosilicate supports were investigated in the continuous flow hydroconversion of furfural to a range of furanic derivatives as compared to a commercial Pd/C catalyst. Excellent furfural conversions (>60%) and varying selectivities to products at mild temperatures (90 °C) could be obtained for most catalytic systems, with interesting selectivities to furfuryl alcohol (FOL), 2-methylfuran (MF) and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFOL) depending on type of Pd catalyst. A significant deactivation with time on stream was observed for continuous flow synthesized nanomaterials with respect to commercial 5%Pd/C.