Preparation of MIL-53(Al) with different ligands for application in the glucose transformation to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural

The efficient transformation of glucose into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) is crucial for sustainable bio-refinery processes, but achieving high production efficiency remains challenging. In this study, we presented the preparation of Al-containing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), specifically MIL-53(Al), MIL-53(Al)-NO2, and MIL-53(Al)-NH2, using different ligands as catalysts to enhance the production of 5-HMF from glucose. Comprehensive characterization provided valuable insights into the properties of the synthesized MOFs. The synthesized MOFs exhibited varied MIL-53(Al) states, morphologies, and thermal stabilities based on the different ligands employed, which in turn affected their catalytic performance. Among the Al-containing MOFs synthesized, MIL-53(Al)-NH2 demonstrated remarkable catalytic capabilities for the conversion of glucose to 5-HMF. This MOF achieved an impressive 5-HMF yield of 53% and a reaction selectivity of 54%. The catalytic efficiency was further enhanced by leveraging the synergistic effect of MIL-53(Al)-NH2 in combination with Amberlyst-36, resulting in a 5-HMF yield of 59% and a reaction selectivity of 60%.