Application of Deep Eutectic Solvent with Ultrasound to Produce Furfural from Oil Palm Fronds

Lignocellulosic biomass is a renewable feedstock for the production of energy and chemicals. Furfural is a valuable platform chemical that can be derived from lignocellulosic biomass and can be regarded as a sustainable alternative to petrochemical products. Unfortunately, the conventional furfural production process suffers from high operating costs and low energy efficiency and yield. Overall, this research project proposed a more sustainable process in producing furfural from oil palm fronds by enabling: (1) mild operating conditions by employing a deep eutectic solvent (DES) system, (2) the production of additional by-products, and (3) the recycling and reuse of the DES system.