Efficient catalytic conversion of fructose into hydroxymethylfurfural by a novel carbon-based solid acid

A novel carbon-based solid acid, which was prepared by a facile and eco-friendly approach from glucose and p-toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH), was used to catalyze fructose dehydration into 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) for the first time and exhibits excellent catalytic performance. As high as 91.2% yield of HMF was achieved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at 130 °C after only 1.5 h. Besides, this catalyst also displayed a good reusability.