Optimization of operating conditions for converting xylan to furfural using DES/MIBK biphasic system and AlCl₃·6H₂O catalyst

Furfural is a key compound for preparing many intermediates used in various industrial sectors. Indonesia's low furfural production causes many furfurals imports each year. This study aims to increase furfural yield from xylan conversion on OPEFB. The production process uses 5% wt xylan substrate derived from OPEFB in a biphasic system. The biphasic system consists of a mixture of the organic phase MIBK and a solution phase of Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) and AlCl3·6H2O catalyst. The experiments were carried out at various operating conditions with parameters of time (30, 60, and 90 minutes), temperature (100, 120, and 140°C), and the concentration of AlCl3·6H2O catalyst (1%, 1.5%, and 2%). The furfural content in the organic phase was analyzed using the HPLC test. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to identify the ideal production parameters resulting in the highest furfural yield. The Quadratic model was applied to correlate operating condition parameters with furfural gain. The optimum conditions for furfural production were obtained at a production time of 30 minutes, a production temperature of 135°C, and the addition of 1.8% AlCl3·6H2O catalyst concentration with a furfural yield of 41%.