Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogenation of Furfural to Furfuryl Alcohol Using an Anion-Exchange Membrane Electrolysis Cell

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The electrochemical hydrogenation (ECH) of furfural (FF) offers a promising pathway for the production of furfuryl alcohol (FA) while aligning with sustainability and environmental considerations. However, this technology has primarily been studied in half-cell configurations operating at high cell voltages and low current densities. Herein, we employ a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) system with an anion-exchange membrane for the ECH of FF and systematically investigate various parameters, including the ionomer content in the cathode catalyst, electrolyte type, electrolyte concentration, and flow rate. Under optimal conditions, our MEA system with non-noble metal-based catalysts exhibits a current density of 30 mA cm –2 with a Faradaic efficiency for FA production of 66% at a cell voltage of 2 V, maintaining operational durability for…