Modeling of a bi-phasic process for the dehydration of xylose from biomass: Effects of solvents on the process cost

The present study addresses the dehydration of xylose, available from biomass, to obtain furfural. To enhance the reaction, additional solvent, highly selective to furfural, is used to develop a bi-phasic process. Although chloroform, methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK), and toluene have been usually considered as effective solvents, they are also known as environmentally unfriendly and toxic chemicals. As an alternative, 2-pentanone is suggested since the material is one of by-products in downstream processes and shown to be used as inert materials. Because the partition coefficient is relatively low compared to chloroform and MIBK, process cost is expected to increase. In this study, a process, composed of bi-phasic reactor and separation units, is considered and the effects of solvents on the process costs are evaluated. Thermodynamic analysis and process simulation showed that, despite relatively low partition coefficient, the degree of increase in a 2-pentanone-based process is insignificant, while guaranteeing the benefit of eco-friendly process.