Catalytic conversion of xylose to furfural over the solid acid SO₄ ²⁻-/ZrO₂-Al₂O₃/SBA-15 catalysts.

Al-promoted SO₄ ²⁻-/ZrO₂SBA-15 catalysts were prepared and characterized by XRD, BET, ICP and NH₃-TPD techniques. The influence of introducing aluminum on the structure and surface properties of the catalyst and the catalytic activity for dehydration of xylose to furfural has been investigated. The introduction of the Al stabilizes the tetragonal phase of the ZrO₂ and thus increases the number and intensity of acid sites. Based on the characterization of the deactivated catalyst, the accumulation of byproducts is the main reason for the deactivation of the catalyst. Regeneration with H₂O₂ can completely recover the catalytic activity of the deactivated catalyst.