Levulinic acid is typically produced via the acid hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. The process involves the breakdown of carbohydrates (such as cellulose and hemicellulose) into sugars, which are then dehydrated to form intermediates like 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). These intermediates are further hydrolyzed to produce levulinic acid. Various catalysts, including mineral acids and solid acid catalysts, can be used to optimize this conversion.
