Synthesis of 5‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐furancarboxaldehyde catalysed by cationic exchange resins. Part 1. Choice of the catalyst and the characteristics of the reaction medium

In this preliminary study, it was shown that strong acid ion exchange resins allowed the dehydration of D ‐fructose to 5‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐furancarboxaldehyde at mild temperatures and pressures. Evidence was given that the use of a solvent (i.e. methyl isobutylketone) with high extracting power toward the obtained compound improved the yield of this reaction. In order to take into account the treatment of aqueous solutions of sugars as well as the peculiar use of ion exchange resins, particularly a good hydration mode, a water:solvent ratio of 1:9 was chosen. These conditions were shown to lead to satisfactory yields and conversion rates.