Lipase-catalyzed (trans)esterification of 5-hydroxy- methylfurfural and separation from HMF esters using...

Area of Science:

• Biomass Valorization and Green Chemistry
• Catalysis and Enzyme Engineering
• Separation Science

Background:

• 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a key platform chemical derived from biomass.
• HMF esters have diverse applications, but their synthesis is challenging due to HMF's reactivity.
• Existing catalytic methods often require harsh conditions, leading to by-product formation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore lipase-catalyzed (trans)esterification of HMF under mild, solvent-free conditions.
• To investigate the use of deep-eutectic solvents (DES) for efficient separation of HMF esters.
• To assess the feasibility of enzymatic synthesis and DES separation for sustainable HMF valorization.

Main Methods:

• Lipase-catalyzed (trans)esterification of HMF with various acyl donors (acids, methyl/ethyl esters).
• Enzyme immobilization for enhanced reusability and productivity.
• Separation of HMF and HMF esters using choline chloride-based deep-eutectic solvents (DES).

Main Results:

• Lipase catalysis enables efficient HMF ester synthesis with high productivity and substrate loading.
• Immobilized enzymes ensure adequate reusability, crucial for industrial application.
• DES-based separation achieved high ester purities (>99%) and recovery efficiencies (up to >90%).

Conclusions:

• Lipase-catalyzed (trans)esterification is a promising, mild route for HMF ester production.
• Enzyme immobilization is key to the economic viability of enzymatic HMF esterification.
• Deep-eutectic solvents provide an effective and selective method for purifying HMF esters.