Inhibition of bacteria and white-rot-fungi by newly synthesized furfural derivatives

New N-alkylfurfurylacetamides were synthesized and characterized from abundant biomass derived furfural by a simple and straightforward procedure with overall yields of 51 to 92%. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized compounds were then investigated and it was found that N-benzyl-N-furfurylacetamide and N-cyclohexyl-N-furfurylacetamide showed promising activity against bacteria, particularly white-rot-fungi, suggesting a feasible new type of anti-fungal agent in applications to protection and conservation of cultural heritage.