On the chemistry of furfuryl alcohol polymerization: A review

Abstract

This review dives into the intricate chemistry of furfuryl alcohol (FA) polymerization, a critical process for producing FA‐based resins (oligomers and polymers). Despite over a century of studies, the complexity of FA resinification continues to intrigue scientists, engendering extensive discourses. The inherent complexity and heterogeneity of FA resins have thwarted attempts to propose a universally applicable structural elucidation, prompting the investigation of numerous proposed mechanisms. Drawing upon an extensive corpus of literature, we survey various proposed mechanisms and representative structural attributes of a range of FA polymeric systems. The insights from a rich tapestry of experimental evidence collectively illuminate the manifold intermediates and pathways that characterize various FA polymerization techniques. A critical appraisal of prevailing debates and counterarguments offers a nuanced perspective on the diverse facets of FA polymerization chemistry. Moreover, this work underscores the latent potential of biobased chemistry, from the perspective of furan chemistry, as a potent catalyst for driving the essential objectives of de‐fossilization and sustainability within the chemical and materials industries. Subsequently, it provides valuable insights into the present state of knowledge on FA polymerization, thereby serving as a vanguard for delineating future research trajectories in this captivating field.

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“…In recent years, about 65% of the annual output of furfural is furfuryl alcohol (FA), which is widely used in various industries such as adhesives, coatings, polymer composites, and manufacturing . A range of FA polymer technologies were studied using various proposed structural characterizations and representative mechanisms . Insights from rich experimental evidence collectively elucidate the diverse intermediates and routes that characterize different FA aggregation strategies .…”

“…In particular, a large number of FAs have been employed as biobased monomer systems in the synthesis of furan resins over the years. − These resins are widely applied in the foundry industry as adhesives, mortars, grouts, impregnants, and sealants for mold structures in the metal casting industry . A critical assessment of prevailing controversies and counterarguments provides a brief view of various aspects of FA polymerization chemistry . Moreover, FA stands out, and its complex mechanism and polymerization kinetics as primary alcohol have attracted the interest of chemical scientists and continue to be the subject of discussion .…”

“…15 A range of FA polymer technologies were studied using various proposed structural character- izations and representative mechanisms. 16 Insights from rich experimental evidence collectively elucidate the diverse intermediates and routes that characterize different FA aggregation strategies. 16 FA and its derivatives possess a range of functionality and attractiveness in different application areas.…”

“…16 Insights from rich experimental evidence collectively elucidate the diverse intermediates and routes that characterize different FA aggregation strategies. 16 FA and its derivatives possess a range of functionality and attractiveness in different application areas. 17 In particular, a large number of FAs have been employed as biobased monomer systems in the synthesis of furan resins over the years.…”

“…21 A critical assessment of prevailing controversies and counterarguments provides a brief view of various aspects of FA polymerization chemistry. 16 Moreover, FA stands out, and its complex mechanism and polymerization kinetics as primary alcohol have attracted the interest of chemical scientists and continue to be the subject of discussion. 22 In addition, biomass-derived furans such as FA may have greater potential, as the search for sustainable chemical and environmental remediation continues.…”