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Updated: Jun 23, 2025

Hydrogen Production and Utilization in a Membrane Reactor
Published on: March 10, 2023
Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogenation of Furfural to Furfuryl Alcohol Using an Anion-Exchange Membrane Electrolysis
Sanghwi Han1, Yoonjae Lee1, Jinse Woo1
1School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University (SNU), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
Abstract:
The electrochemical hydrogenation (ECH) of furfural (FF) offers a promising pathway for the production of furfuryl alcohol (FA) while aligning with sustainability and environmental considerations. However, this technology has primarily been studied in half-cell configurations operating at high cell voltages and low current densities. Herein, we employ a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) system with an anion-exchange membrane for the ECH of FF and systematically investigate various parameters, including the ionomer content in the cathode catalyst, electrolyte type, electrolyte concentration, and flow rate. Under optimal conditions, our MEA system with non-noble metal-based catalysts exhibits a current density of 30 mA cm-2 with a Faradaic efficiency for FA production of 66% at a cell voltage of 2 V, maintaining operational durability for 5 h. This study highlights the potential of electrochemical FA production for practical applications to realize the decarbonization of the hydrogenation industry.
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