Abstract: A method of preparing an organosilicon compound via selective silylation of ethylene is disclosed. The method comrises prises reacting via silylation (A) a hydridochlorosilane compound and (B) ethylene in the presence of (C) a catalyst, thereby preparing the organosilicon compound. The silylation may be selectively conducted as a dehydrogenative coupling to prepare the organosilicon ompound as a vinylchlorosilane compound, or as a hydrosilylation to prepare the organosilicon compound as an ethylchlorosilane compound. The catalyst (C) comprises a Ru(0) complex, and may be recycled for use in subsequent silylation reactions without purification. The organosilicon compound prepared according to the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method to produce 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is described in which a reactant including cellulose, lignocellulose, or a combination thereof, in a reaction mixture of a polar, aprotic solvent and an acid is reacted for a time, at a temperature, and at a hydrogen ion concentration wherein at least a portion of the cellulose or lignocellulose present in the reactant is converted to HMF. The reaction mixture is initially substantially devoid of water. As the reaction proceeds, dehydration of intermediates causes the water concentration in the reaction mixture to rise to no more than about 0.2 wt % water.

Abstract: A method to produce 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is described in which a reactant including cellulose, lignocellulose, or a combination thereof, in a reaction mixture of a polar, aprotic solvent and an acid is reacted for a time, at a temperature, and at a hydrogen ion concentration wherein at least a portion of the cellulose or lignocellulose present in the reactant is converted to HMF. The reaction mixture is initially substantially devoid of water. As the reaction proceeds, dehydration of intermediates causes the water concentration in the reaction mixture to rise to no more than about 0.2 wt % water.