Solvent-free synthesis of mesoporous MoO3-V2O5/Al2O3 catalyst for liquid phase selective oxidation of furfural to maleic anhydride

The catalytic selective oxidation of biomass-derived platform chemicals into monomers offers a sustainable alternative pathway to fossil-based production of chemicals. Herein, mesoporous Al₂O₃ with dispersed Mo-V oxide catalysts were prepared through a solvent-free solid-state grinding method for the liquid phase oxidation of furfural to maleic anhydride. The selective oxidation of furfural to maleic anhydride was dependent on the Mo/V mole ratio of the catalyst, catalyst calcination temperature, and catalyst synthesis method. The synergistic interaction of Mo-V with Al₂O₃ was identified as crucial for enhancing catalytic activity and selectivity towards maleic anhydride. The reusability of the 25Mo₁VA catalyst was studied over five catalytic cycles with a progressive loss of maleic anhydride yield due to the formation of surface carbonaceous species. However, the majority of maleic anhydride yield could be recovered utilizing a catalyst regeneration cycle (600 °C, 3 h).