Tetrahydrofuran

HCID 8028CAS 109-99-9

Basic information

Standard SMILES
C1CCOC1
InChIKey
WYURNTSHIVDZCO-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Molecular formula
C4H8O
Average molar mass
72.11 g/mol
Monoisotopic mass
72.05751487

Names & identifiers

Preferred name
Tetrahydrofuran
IUPAC
oxolane
English name
Tetrahydrofuran
Molecular formula
C4H8O
Molecular weight
72.11

Names & synonyms

TETRAHYDROFURANOxolane109-99-9FuranidineFuran, tetrahydro-Tetramethylene oxideHydrofuranOxacyclopentane1,4-EpoxybutaneTetrahydrofuranneTetraidrofuranoTetrahydrofuraan
Show more names
THFTetrahydrofuranePTMEG 2000Butylene oxidePTHFabcoxolanTetrahydrofuran, 99.6%, stabilized with BHT, for analysis ACSPTMEG 1000
Cyclotetramethylene oxideAgrisynth THFButane, 1,4-epoxy-RCRA waste number U213Butane, alpha,delta-oxideDTXSID1021328NCI-C60560Butane alpha,delta-oxide

Database identifiers

CAS
109-99-9、24979-97-3
PubChem CID
8028
DTXSID
DTXSID1021328
ChEMBL
CHEMBL276521
ChEBI
CHEBI:26911
UNII
3N8FZZ6PY4
EC Number
203-726-8
Nikkaji
J2.878I

Properties

Computed structural properties

XLogP
0.5
Topological polar surface area
9.2 Ų
Hydrogen bond donors
0
Hydrogen bond acceptors
1
Rotatable bonds
0
Heavy atoms
5

Experimental & physicochemical properties

LogP · 3 items

log Kow = 0.46

0.46

0.46 (estimated)

Odor · 2 items

Ether-like odor

FAINT FRUITY ODOR

TastePUNGENT TASTE
Density · 6 items

0.888 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

0.8833 g/cu cm at 25 °C

Saturated liquid density: 55.230 lb/cu ft; saturated vapor pressure: 2.913 lb/sq in; saturated vapor density: 0.03660 lb/cu ft (all at 75 °F)

Relative density (water = 1): 0.89

0.89

0.8833 @25 °C

Viscosity · 2 items

0.53 cP at 20 °C

0.5 mPa*s at 20 °C

Color/Form · 3 items

Colorless, mobile liquid

Water-white liquid

Colorless liquid

Physicochemical properties

Melting point
-108 °C · -108°C
Boiling point
66 °C · 66 °C
Density
0.887 g/mL · 0.887 g/mL at 20 °C
vapor density
2.5 · 2.5 (vs air)
vapor pressure
0.01 mm · <0.01 mm Hg ( 25 °C)
refractive index
20 · n20/D 1.465

Safety & regulation

GHS classification

GHS Classification · 6 items

Danger

H225: Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids];H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation];H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation];H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264+P265, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P318, P319, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.1% (2 of 1661) of reports.

Hazard information

Regulatory Information · 6 items

Chemical: Furan, tetrahydro-

Hazard Traits - Carcinogenicity; Environmental tox; Neurotoxicity;Authoritative List - CWA 303(d); IARC Carcinogens - 2B; IRIS Neurotoxicants; Prop 65;Report - regardless of intended function of ingredient in the product

Furan, tetrahydro- is listed on the EPA's Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) system. Manufacturers and importers of Furan, tetrahydro- are required to report information about their production and use of this chemical to the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (40 eCFR Part 711)

Status: Active Update: 30-03-2023 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/15474;Status: Active Update: 16-03-2018 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/22931

Furan, tetrahydro-: HSNO Approval: HSR001224 Approved with controls

The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act requires public and private employers to provide information about hazardous substances at their workplaces. (N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et. seq.)

Other Safety InformationIMAP assessments - Furan, tetrahydro-: Human health tier III assessment;IMAP assessments - Furan, tetrahydro-: Human health tier II assessment
DOT LabelFlammable Liquid
Fire Hazards · 3 items

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Irritating vapor is generated when heated.;Behavior in Fire: May explode. Vapor is heavier than air and may travel considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back. (USCG, 1999)

· HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.;CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.);· Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.;· Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.;· Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).;· Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.;· Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.;· Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.;· Containers may explode when heated.;· Many liquids will float on water.

Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive.

Fire PotentialFlammable liquid. A very dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat, flames, oxidizers.
Health Hazards · 2 items

Vapors cause nausea, dizziness, headache, and anesthesia. Liquid can de-fat the skin and cause irritation. Liquid also irritates eyes. (USCG, 1999)

· Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes.;· Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.;· Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas.;· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

Safety & protection

Fire Fighting · 2 items

Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]:;CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient. CAUTION: For fire involving UN1170, UN1987 or UN3475, alcohol-resistant foam should be used. CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.).;SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.;LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.;FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Use alcohol-resistant foam, water spray, powder, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

First Aid Measures · 4 items

Fresh air, rest. Refer immediately for medical attention.

First rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, then remove contaminated clothes and rinse again. Refer for medical attention .

Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

Accidental Release Measures · 2 items

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.;· Keep unauthorized personnel away.;· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.;· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.;· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.;· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.;· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.;· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.;· A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors.;· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.;· Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.;Large Spill;· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.;· Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces.

First Aid · 3 items

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.;SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.;INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.;INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Volatile chemicals have a high risk of being aspirated into the victim's lungs during vomiting which increases the medical problems. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

General First Aid:;· Call 911 or emergency medical service.;· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.;· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.;· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.;· If victim is not breathing:;-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.;-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).;-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.;· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.;· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.;· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.;· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.;· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.;· Keep victim calm and warm.;· Keep victim under observation.;· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.;· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.;Specific First Aid:;· Wash skin with soap and water.

(General first aid procedures);Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.;Skin: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention.;Breathing: Respiratory support;Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Safe StorageFireproof. Well closed. Separated from : see Chemical Dangers.
Firefighting Hazards · 2 items

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is extremely flammable (NFPA rating = 3), and its vapor can travel a considerable distance to an ignition source and "flash back." A 5% solution of THF in water is flammable.

Vapor is heavier than air and may travel considerable distance to source of ignition and flash back.

Toxicology

Body BurdenIn 4 urban areas, tetrahydrofuran was detected in Mother's milk in 1 of 12 samples(1).
Target Organs · 2 items

Developmental;Hepatic;Nervous

Eyes, respiratory system, central nervous system

Ecotoxicity Values · 5 items

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age < or = 24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20-22 °C, pH 7.6-7.7; Concentration: >10,000,000 ug/L for 24 hr /formulated product/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna Straus (water flea); Concentration: 5930 mg/L for 24 hr; Conditions: DIN 38412 Section 11

LC50; Species: Moina macrocopa (water flea); Concentration: 9800 mg/L for 3 hr /Conditions of bioassay not given/

LC50; Species: Carassius auratus (goldfish); Concentration: 2400 mg/L for 48 hr; Conditions: static

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Tetrahydrofuran (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Environmental Fate · 3 items

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 18 and 23(2), indicate that tetrahydrofuran is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of tetrahydrofuran from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 7.05X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(3). Tetrahydrofuran is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 162 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). Tetrahydrofuran, added to the surface of 2 different soil samples which had been sterilized to prevent microbial degradation, had a disappearance half-life of 5.7 days(5). A 100% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(6) suggests that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC); however, the EEC manometric respirometric method, tested in 22 different laboratories, gave a mean of 34% of the theoretical BOD within 28 days(7).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 18 and 23(2), indicate that tetrahydrofuran is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 7.05X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 13 hours and 6.6 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from its log Kow of 0.46(6) and a regression-derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). In the modified MITI screening test, tetrahydrofuran at 100 mg/L was completely biodegraded in 14 days using an activated sludge inoculum(8); however, the EEC manometric respirometric method, tested in 22 different laboratories, gave a mean of 34% of the theoretical BOD within 28 days(9).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), tetrahydrofuran, which has a vapor pressure of 162 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetrahydrofuran is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is 21 to 24 hours(3), calculated from its measured rate constants of 1.62X10-11 to 1.8X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec(4). Butyrolactone and alpha-hydroxytetrahydrofuran were formed as products during the photooxidation of tetrahydrofuran(5). Tetrahydrofuran will also react with nitrate radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is 3 days(SRC), calculated from its measured rate constant of 4.88X10-15 cu cm/molecule-sec(6). Tetrahydrofuran is moderately reactive in photochemical smog conditions where nitrogen oxides are present; reactions occur in time scales of hours(7-9).

Food Survey Values · 3 items

Tetrahydrofuran has been identified in coffee aroma.

Constituent of roasted coffee

Tetrahydrofuran was detected as a volatile compound, isolated from floured chickpea seed(1). This compound was identified in the volatile component of cooked chicken(2).

Adverse Effects · 1 item

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome;Occupational hepatotoxin - Primary hepatotoxins: the toxic effect to the liver is the principal adverse effect of the chemical.;Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.;IARC Carcinogen - Class 3: Chemicals are not classifiable by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.;ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

Regulatory information

Regulatory Information · 6 items

Chemical: Furan, tetrahydro-

Hazard Traits - Carcinogenicity; Environmental tox; Neurotoxicity;Authoritative List - CWA 303(d); IARC Carcinogens - 2B; IRIS Neurotoxicants; Prop 65;Report - regardless of intended function of ingredient in the product

Furan, tetrahydro- is listed on the EPA's Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) system. Manufacturers and importers of Furan, tetrahydro- are required to report information about their production and use of this chemical to the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). (40 eCFR Part 711)

Status: Active Update: 30-03-2023 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/15474;Status: Active Update: 16-03-2018 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/22931

Furan, tetrahydro-: HSNO Approval: HSR001224 Approved with controls

The New Jersey Worker and Community Right to Know Act requires public and private employers to provide information about hazardous substances at their workplaces. (N.J.S.A. 34:5A-1 et. seq.)

FDA RequirementsTetrahydrofuran is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
RCRA Requirements · 1 item

U213; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when tetrahydrofuran, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).

TSCA Requirements · 3 items

Section 8(a) of TSCA requires manufacturers of this chemical substance to report preliminary assessment information concerned with production, exposure, and use to EPA as cited in the preamble in 51 FR 41329. Effective date 3/11/94; Reporting date: 5/10/95.

Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Tetrahydrofuran is included on this list. Effective date 3/11/94; Sunset date: 6/30/98.

A testing consent order is in effect for tetrahydrofuran for health effects testing. FR citation: 1/23/95.

CERCLA Reportable Quantities · 1 item

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 1000 lb or 454 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV.D.3.b).

State Drinking Water Guidelines · 5 items

(MA) MASSACHUSETTS 600 ug/L

(NH) NEW HAMPSHIRE 150 ug/L

(WI) WISCONSIN 50 ug/L

(ME) MAINE 70 ug/L

(FL) FLORIDA 4.6 ug/L

Safety data

F
3-10-23
OEB
A
OEL
TWA: 200 ppm (590 mg/m3), STEL: 250 ppm (735 mg/m3)
wgk
1
IDLA
2,000 ppm [10% LEL]
tsca
TSCA listed

Chemistry & industry

Pharmacology

Biological Half-Life · 2 items

A single oral application of 300 mg/kg THF as a 10% aqueous solution was given to rats (strain and sex not given). The animals were killed 10-300 min following application and the THF concentration in liver, kidneys, brain, spleen, muscle, adipose tissue, and blood determined (gel column, mass spectroscopy). The highest THF value in the blood was at 1 hr post-application (about 200 mg/kg). The biological half-life in blood was 5 hr. THF concentrations in adipose tissue and kidneys were 1.3-1.4 times higher than in blood; levels in liver, brain, spleen, and muscle were similar to blood. Comparable levels were found in two rabbits after oral application of 700 mg/kg (half-life 4-6 hr; THF(adipose tissue)/THF(blood) ratio 1.4, ratio for remaining organs 0.5-0.9). In a second experiment with rats, 300 mg/kg doses were again used. THF concentration in blood was measured over 24 hr. It climbed rapidly to a maximum of 150 mg/kg 1.5-2 hr post-application; thereafter it declined gradually to null over 24 hr. Biological half-life in blood: 7.5 hr. /Translated from German/

Ten healthy male human volunteers were exposed at 50 and 200 ppm THF in air in 2- and 3-hr exposures, each separated by 1 hour of rest. The biological half-life was found to be 32 minutes for alveolar air, and 118 minutes for urine following the peak that occurred at the end of exposure.

Metabolism/MetabolitesIn vitro studies ... indicated that THF was first hydroxylated by the microsomal enzymes and further cleaved to the straight chain fatty acid in the presence of cytosol.
Absorption, Distribution and Excretion · 5 items

THF levels in various organs as well as excretion rates were determined in three different inhalation experiments in rats: 1) 30 min exposure to 45 mg/L (15,000 ppm); 2) 30 min/day, 7 day exposure to 45 mg/L (15,000 ppm); 3) 1 hr/day, 5 days/week, 12 weeks exposure to 9 mg/L (3000 ppm). Results: 1) Immediately after the completion of the exposure the following order of THF concentrations were seen: blood > brain > kidneys > heart > liver > spleen > lung. The lowest concentration was in the lung: 200 mg/kg, in the other organs: 480-600 mg/kg (maximum excretion in exhaled air). After 1 hr 70-80% had been excreted from the organs; the remainder slowly disappeared over 12-13 hr. 2) Directly after the final exposure, the lowest value was 130-300 ug/kg as in the single exposure. Excretion in the initial phase was weaker with higher THF concentrations after 1 or 3 hr. After 6 hr the excretion rate was similar to the single exposure study. 3) Directly after the last exposure the highest THF concentration was in the thymus (160 ug/kg) and spleen (110 ug/kg), 60-100 ug/kg in the other organs. The thymus also had the highest concentration of the organs after 6 hr; the concentrations in the lungs and other organs were similar (an indication of reduced exhaled excretion); complete excretion of THF was in about 12 hr as in 1) and 2). Conclusion: tissue levels are dependent on THF-concentrations in exhaled air. Greatest excretion occurs in exhaled air. /Translated from German/

A single oral application of 300 mg/kg THF as a 10% aqueous solution was given to rats (strain and sex not given). The animals were killed 10-300 min following application and the THF concentration in liver, kidneys, brain, spleen, muscle, adipose tissue, and blood determined (gel column, mass spectroscopy). The highest THF value in the blood was at 1 hr post-application (about 200 mg/kg). The biological half-life in blood was 5 hr. THF concentrations in adipose tissue and kidneys were 1.3-1.4 times higher than in blood; levels in liver, brain, spleen, and muscle were similar to blood. Comparable levels were found in two rabbits after oral application of 700 mg/kg (half-life 4-6 hr; THF(adipose tissue)/THF(blood) ratio 1.4, ratio for remaining organs 0.5-0.9). In a second experiment with rats, 300 mg/kg doses were again used. THF concentration in blood was measured over 24 hr. It climbed rapidly to a maximum of 150 mg/kg 1.5-2 hr post-application; thereafter it declined gradually to null over 24 hr. Biological half-life in blood: 7.5 hr. /Translated from German/

Excretion of tetrahydrofuran in mother's milk reported in 1 of 12 samples collected in 4 urban areas in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Louisiana.

Adult male rats exposed to tetrahydrofuran vapor at 8.2 (200 ppm), 41 (1,000 ppm) or 82 mumol/l (2,000 ppm) for 2 to 18 weeks, five days a week, 6 hrs daily, showed dose-dependent brain and perirenal fat solvent burden linearly correlated to each other. After two weeks of exposure, the body burden of tetrahydrofuran seems to decrease. This might have been caused by increased oxidative metabolism as enhanced 7-ethoxycoumarin-O-deethylase activity was detected in liver and kidneys in the second week and onwards. The exposure also caused inhibition of alcohol and formaldehyde dehydrogenase activities in liver at the highest dose. Biochemical effects in the cerebellum were not detected, while gluteal muscle specimens showed increased succinate dehydrogenase activity in a dose-related manner. This points to effects on the energy metabolism. Muscle acetylcholine esterase activity was also increased showing possible effects on the myoneural junctions.

For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for Tetrahydrofuran (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Cellular LocationsCytoplasm

Uses & manufacturing

Uses · 6 items

Used as a solvent for polymers and resins, a wetting agent for textiles, and a chemical intermediate; [ACGIH] Used as a solvent in inks, adhesives, and lacquers; [HSDB]

Textiles (Fiber & Fabric Manufacturing) [Category: Industry];Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint];Working with Glues and Adhesives [Category: Other];Plastic Composites Manufacturing [Category: Industry]

Solvent for high polymers, especially polyvinyl chloride. As reaction medium for Grignard and metal hydride reactions. In the synthesis of butyrolactone, succinic acid, 1,4-butanediol diacetate. Solvent in histological techniques.

Solvent for fat oils, unvulcanized rubber; for making adipic acid

Solvent in preparation of printing inks, adhesives, lacquers, & other coatings; Grignard reagent in synthesis of motor fuels, vitamins, hormones, pharmaceuticals, synthetic perfumes, organometallic cmpds, & insecticides.

Solvent for natural and synthetic resins, particularly vinyls, in topcoating solutions, polymer coating, cellophane, protective coatings, adhesives, magnetic tapes, printing inks, etc., Grignard reactions, lithium aluminum hydride reductions, and polymerizations; chemical intermediate and monomer.

ImpuritiesPeroxide (as hydrogen peroxide): 0.015%, water: 0.02%
U.S. Exports · 5 items

(1978) 4.99X10+9 G

(1983) 6.73X10+9 G

(1985) 1.71X10+8 g

(1987) 9.50X10+6 lb

(1988) 1.01X10+7 lb

U.S. Imports · 4 items

(1974) 4.2X10+5 lb/yr

(1975) 8.2X10+4 lb/yr

(1985) 1.24X10+8 g

(1986) 8.12X10+4 lb

U.S. Production · 6 items

2023: 100,000,000 - <250,000,000 lb;2022: 100,000,000 - <250,000,000 lb;2021: 100,000,000 - <250,000,000 lb;2020: 100,000,000 - <250,000,000 lb

(1977) AT LEAST 2.72X10+10 G

(1982) 4.85X10+10 G

(1985) 5.46X10+10 g

(1987) 1.42X10+8 lb

For more U.S. Production (Complete) data for Tetrahydrofuran (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Consumption Patterns · 3 items

Resin solvent 40%, Chemical Int 40%, Grignard reaction solvent 20%.

SOLVENT FOR RESINS, 40%; CHEMICAL INTERMEDIATE, 40%; REACTION SOLVENT, 20% (1977)

Polytetrahydrofuran, 68%; coating solvent, 23%; other (reaction solvent, thiophane), 9% (1983)

Applications · 6 items

DescriptionTetrahydrofuran (THF) is a colorless, volatile liquid with an ethereal or acetonelike smell and is miscible in water and most organic solvents.It is highly flammable and may thermally decompose to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Prolonged storage in contact with air and in the absence of an antioxidant may cause THF to decompose into explosive peroxides.Tetrahydrofuran is used in the manufacture of polymers as well as agricultural, pharmaceutical, and commodity chemicals. Manufacturing activities commonly occur in closed systems or under engineering controls that limit worker exposure and release to the environment. THF is also used as a solvent (e.g., pipe fitting) that may result in more significant exposures when used in confined spaces without sufficient ventilation. Although THF is naturally present in coffee aroma, floured chickpeas, and cooked chicken, natural exposures are not anticipated to pose a significant hazard.

UsesSolvent for high polymers, especially polyvinyl chloride. As reaction medium for Grignard and metal hydride reactions. In the synthesis of butyrolactone, succinic acid, 1,4-butanediol diacetate. Solvent in histological techniques. May be used under Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetic Act for fabrication of articles for packaging, transporting, or storing of foods if residual amount does not exceed 1.5% of the film: Fed. Regist. 27, 3919 (Apr. 25, 1962).

UsesButylene oxide is used as a fumigant and inadmixture with other compounds. It is usedto stabilize fuel with respect to color andsludge formation.

UsesTetrahydrofuran is used primarily (80%) to make polytetramethylene ether glycol, the base polymer used primarily in the manufacture of elastomeric fibers (e.g., spandex) as well as polyurethane and polyester elastomers (e.g., artificial leather, skateboard wheels). The remainder (20%) is used in solvent applications (e.g., pipe cements, adhesives, printing inks, and magnetic tape) and as a reaction solvent in chemical and pharmaceutical syntheses.

UsesTetrahydrofuran is used as a solvent forresins, vinyls, and high polymers; as a Grignardreaction medium for organometallic,and metal hydride reactions; and in the synthesisof succinic acid and butyrolactone.

General DescriptionA clear colorless liquid with an ethereal odor. Less dense than water.Flash point 6°F. Vapors are heavier than air.

Suppliers50 total

国药集团化学试剂有限公司86-21-63210123 · [email protected]
梯希爱(上海)化成工业发展有限公司021-67121386 · [email protected]
上海阿拉丁生化科技股份有限公司400-6206333 13167063860 · [email protected]
上海拓磊化学试剂有限公司86-021-50318510
Syntechem Co.,Ltd[email protected]

Additional notes

DefinitionChEBI: A cyclic ether that is butane in which one hydrogen from each methyl group is substituted by an oxygen.

Related reactions

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Linked notes

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