Catalytic Transfer Hydrogenation of Furfural over Co3O4−Al2O3 Hydrotalcite‐derived Catalyst

The hydrogenation of furfural by catalytic hydrogen transfer to produce furfuryl alcohol has been investigated over a series of mixed oxides derived from hydrotalcite catalysts. Three different catalysts containing Ni, Co and Zn phases on an Al‐rich amorphous support were synthesized and characterised. The catalytic performances were evaluated in a batch stirred reactor using 2‐propanol as a solvent and hydrogen donor, with Co3O4−Al2O3 showing the highest activity and selectivity to FA (74 % yield; 97 % selectivity). The effects of temperature (T=120–180 °C) and reaction time (t=30 min–24 h) were also studied, reaching a FA maximum yield of 92 % at 150 °C after 24 h. The Co3O4−Al2O3 catalyst showed a loss of activity after the first run, which can be easily restored by a simple calcination treatment. The results establish a catalytic route to produce valuable furfuryl alcohol over 3d‐transition metal‐based catalysts without any external hydrogen supply. Sustainable biomass valorization: A Co3O4−Al2O3 catalyst allows for the catalytic transfer hydrogenation of furfural into furfuryl alcohol without using noble metal catalysts or molecular hydrogen.