Publication date: 15th December 2025
Electrochemistry has emerged as a sustainable cornerstone for the transition from fossil fuels to high-added-value products derived from biomass. Among these, 2,5-Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) stands out as a critical bio-based monomer to produce poly (ethylene 2,5-furandicarboxylate) (PEF), a renewable alternative to petroleum-based polyesters [1],[2].
The standard production of FDCA typically relies on the oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) [3]. However, HMF is chemically unstable in the highly alkaline conditions required for efficient electrolysis, often leading to degradation into undesired byproducts like formic acid, levulinic acid, and humins. These side reactions significantly compromise the purity and yield of the final monomer [4]-[6].
This study proposes an innovative one-pot synthesis route starting directly from fructose, avoiding the complex purification of the HMF intermediate. The process integrates sugar dehydration followed by a Cannizzaro reaction in a basic medium. This strategic step converts the volatile HMF into a stable mixture of 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF) and 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (HMFCA) [7].
By utilizing this stabilized mixture, the final electrochemical step yields high-purity FDCA as a new production route from a primary feedstock. Notably, hydrogen is produced as a concomitant reaction during the process, adding further value to the system as a clean energy carrier. This integrated approach offers a robust pathway to bridge the gap between primary biomass and biopolymer precursors, effectively closing the carbon cycle and reducing industrial dependence on petroleum.
Acknowledgments: Financial support from projects ADD, STECH, CIPROM/2023/57, and the Grisolia contract CIGRIS/2022/121 is gratefully acknowledged.
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