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Free keywords:
Biomass conversion; Catalysis; Clay materials; Fructose; Glucose isomerization
Abstract:
Kaolin was identified as an effective catalyst for isomerization of glucose to fructose in methanol. The methyl-fructoside is obtained as main product through in situ etherification at the anomeric carbon atom, reflecting the bifunctionality of the layered alumosilicate. Using this exceptionally cheap and abundant natural clay (0.16 $/kg), methyl-fructoside is produced with up to 52% yield.