Furans derived from lignocellulosic biomass as renewable substrates in multicomponent reactions

Abstract

Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) are a powerful and efficient tool for organic synthesis, where three or more substrates react to form a more complex product in a single step. They have been essential for the synthesis of new drugs and materials, and are widely promoted from the perspective of sustainable chemistry, since, compared to chemical processes carried out in stages, they save time and resources, in addition to generating less waste. However, furan compounds derived from lignocellulosic biomass are still little explored in MCRs as substrates. This is particularly promising because these compounds are renewable and lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant raw materials in the world. Furthermore, in general, research on innovation in chemical processes has been moving towards the replacement of chemical inputs derived from petroleum by materials from renewable sources. This short review highlights the key aspects of the use of furans derived from lignocellulosic biomass as substrates in MCRs.