Diels–Alder Reaction of Biofuran Derivatives and Cycloolefin for Directional Synthesis of Fused Ring Hydrocarbon High Density Jet Fuel

Attention has been drawn to the potential of renewable biomass as an alternative to petroleum-based feedstocks for the synthesis of high-density fuels given the depletion of petroleum resources and critical environmental issues. In this study, fused ring high-density liquid fuel precursors were directionally synthesized from biofuran derivatives by the Diels–Alder reaction. The impact of different dienophiles on the Diels–Alder reaction of 2-methylfuran facilitated by zeolites was evaluated. The influences of the catalyst, reaction temperature, and reactant ratio on the reaction were explored. Moreover, this study emphasized the specific synthesis of high density fuels by examining the significant influence of the substrate structure on the Diels–Alder reaction. When preparing polycyclic structures through Diels–Alder reactions of furan derivatives, it is advisible to consider monosubstituted furan derivatives first due to their high electron density and suitable steric resistance. The insights gleaned from this study provide substantial guidance for selecting suitable feedstocks for fuel synthesis, further contributing to sustainable energy solutions.