Furans comprise a class of bio-based heteroaromatic compounds with diverse applications, which makes them valuable for circular economy. Furans have long been used in polymer chemistry, e.g. in thermosets, but they are currently experiencing a new wave of interest. Furan diacids such as 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid can be used to prepare thermoplastics including polyesters and polyamides. Furan-based polyesters such as poly(ethylene 2,5-furanoate) have excellent properties, making them possible replacements for fossil-based polymers such as poly(ethylene terephthalate).<br/><br/>Furfural is a key chemical intermediate traditionally prepared from acid catalyzed degradation of hemicelluloses. Its oxidation yields another important chemical; 2-furoic acid. Ester derivatives of this furan acid can be coupled into a bifuran structure through palladium catalyzed direct coupling. The resultant bifurans have two ester groups, which make them possible polymer precursors.

Bifuran polyesters: Preparation, properties, and monomer synthesis

2019 Fall National Meeting

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