TETRAHYDROFURAN

Tetrahydrofuran is a highly versatile, polar, aprotic solvent widely used in polymer production, coatings, adhesives, and as a reaction medium in chemical synthesis.
Tetrahydrofuran is valued for its strong solvency, low viscosity, and ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, resins, and polymers, particularly polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethanes.
Tetrahydrofuran is also used in pharmaceutical formulations, electronics, and as a starting material in the manufacture of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG).

CAS Number: 109-99-9
EC Number: 203-726-8
Molecular Formula: C₄H₈O
Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol

Synonyms: Tetrahydrofuran, THF, Oxolane, 1,4-Epoxybutane, Butylene oxide, Butylenoxide, Diethylene oxide, THF solvent, 2,3-Dihydrofuran, Tetrahydrofuran anhydrous, Cyclotetramethylene oxide, THF 109-99-9, Polymer-grade THF, THF reagent grade, Tetrahydrofuran for synthesis, Tetrahydrofuran for HPLC, THF extraction solvent, THF polymerization solvent, THF for polyurethanes, THF for PVC processing, Anhydrous tetrahydrofuran, THF monomer solvent, THF chemical intermediate, THF organic solvent, Tetrahydrofuran ACS grade, THF industrial solvent, Tetrahydrofuran USP grade, THF pharmaceutical grade, THF laboratory reagent, THF low-viscosity solvent, THF cyclic ether

APPLICATIONS

Tetrahydrofuran is used extensively as a solvent in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) adhesives and coatings.
Tetrahydrofuran is employed as a reaction medium in Grignard and other organometallic reactions due to its strong solvating power.
Tetrahydrofuran is used in pharmaceutical synthesis for active ingredients and intermediates.

Tetrahydrofuran is a precursor in the production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), which is used in spandex and elastomer manufacturing.
Tetrahydrofuran is found in ink formulations, printing solutions, and cleaning agents for electronics.
Tetrahydrofuran is used in laboratory settings for polymerization, purification, and extraction.

Tetrahydrofuran is suitable for dissolving natural and synthetic resins, including rubber and epoxy formulations.
Tetrahydrofuran is used in fuel cell membrane manufacturing and as a stabilizer in complex chemical reactions.
Tetrahydrofuran is compatible with a variety of organic compounds and is used in chromatography applications.

Tetrahydrofuran is widely used as a solvent in the production of plastics, including PVC, where it helps dissolve and polymerize monomers to create various polymer products.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and for dissolving compounds that are otherwise insoluble in water.

Tetrahydrofuran is used in the production of adhesives and sealants, where it acts as a solvent to help dissolve polymers and improve bonding strength.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the production of synthetic rubbers and elastomers, where it is used to dissolve monomers and improve the processing of polymer materials.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the formulation of paints and coatings, where it helps dissolve resins and improve the flow properties, ensuring an even application.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used as a solvent in the production of polyurethane foams, where it helps dissolve polymer components and improve the foam’s texture and consistency.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is applied in the preparation of lithium battery electrolytes, where it acts as a solvent for lithium salts, enhancing the conductivity and performance of the battery.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the synthesis of tetrahydrofuran-based copolymers, which are used in the manufacture of materials like adhesives and coatings.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the formulation of inks and printing pastes, where it helps dissolve pigments and resins, improving the quality of the printing process.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in laboratory applications as a solvent for a wide range of organic compounds, particularly in reactions involving polymers, catalysis, and chemical synthesis.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the production of solvent-based cleaning products, where it helps dissolve and remove oils, greases, and contaminants from surfaces.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the formulation of nail polish removers, where it helps to dissolve and remove the polymer-based substances in nail polishes.

Tetrahydrofuran is used in the production of cosmetics and personal care products, where it serves as a solvent for various active ingredients, improving the texture and efficacy of formulations.
Tetrahydrofuran is applied in the pharmaceutical industry to prepare solutions and suspensions for drug formulations, where it improves the solubility of poorly water-soluble compounds.

Tetrahydrofuran is used in the polymerization of butadiene to create rubber-like materials used in tires and other industrial applications.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the production of chemical intermediates, including tetrahydropyran, which is a key building block in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed as a solvent in the preparation of polymer solutions for the production of fibers and textiles, where it helps dissolve polymer components and improves processability.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the production of coatings for electronics and printed circuit boards, where it helps improve the adhesion and consistency of the coating materials.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is applied in the manufacture of specialty chemicals, where it serves as a solvent for chemical reactions that require a stable and non-reactive medium.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used as a solvent in the production of cleaning agents for industrial and commercial use, where it helps to dissolve and remove oils and greases from machinery and equipment.

Tetrahydrofuran is employed in the formulation of solvent-based adhesives for packaging materials, improving adhesion and flow properties.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the production of synthetic fibers, such as polyurethanes, where it serves as a solvent for the polymers in the production process.

Tetrahydrofuran is applied in the polymerization of cyclic ethers, used in the creation of advanced materials in coatings, films, and composites.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in laboratory-scale chemical reactions, where its excellent solvent properties are ideal for a wide range of organic reactions, particularly those involving lithium reagents and organometallic compounds.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the production of polyurethane elastomers, which are utilized in a variety of applications, including footwear, automotive parts, and industrial coatings.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the synthesis of a wide range of organic chemicals, where it provides an effective medium for catalysis, polymerization, and other chemical transformations.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the production of optical coatings, where it helps in the formulation of smooth and uniform layers that improve light transmission and durability.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is applied in the preparation of epoxy resin formulations, where it acts as a solvent that ensures better mixing and application of resin products.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is used in the preparation of high-performance lubricants, where it serves as a solvent that enhances the solubility and stability of additives.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is employed in the production of pharmaceuticals, where it helps dissolve and stabilize various active ingredients for use in injectable or oral formulations.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor, widely used as a solvent in various industrial and laboratory applications.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a highly polar solvent known for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds, making it essential in chemical synthesis and polymer processing.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a versatile solvent that can dissolve both hydrophobic and hydrophilic substances, allowing it to be used in diverse applications, including polymerization and chemical reactions.

DESCRIPTION

Tetrahydrofuran is a clear, colorless, highly volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor.
Tetrahydrofuran is a five-membered cyclic ether (a heterocycle) that serves as a strong polar aprotic solvent.
Tetrahydrofuran is miscible with water and most organic solvents, making it suitable for a wide range of chemical environments.

Tetrahydrofuran has excellent low-temperature performance and is known for its ability to solubilize high-molecular-weight polymers.
Tetrahydrofuran forms azeotropes with water and must be stabilized (typically with BHT) to prevent peroxide formation during storage.
Tetrahydrofuran is flammable and requires careful handling under controlled ventilation and explosion-proof equipment.

Tetrahydrofuran meets the specifications of ACS, USP, and industrial grades for various applications.
Due to its reactivity, THF is often distilled or purified before use in high-precision synthesis.
Tetrahydrofuran is subject to strict regulation due to its potential health and environmental hazards.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is highly soluble in water and many organic solvents, which makes it an effective medium for chemical reactions and as a solvent for pharmaceutical formulations.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is commonly used in the synthesis of polymers such as polyurethanes and polystyrene, where it aids in the dissolution of monomers and enhances polymerization.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a highly reactive solvent that is stable under typical reaction conditions, making it a preferred choice in industrial and laboratory applications involving reactive chemicals.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) has a low boiling point and high evaporation rate, making it ideal for applications requiring quick drying, such as coatings and adhesives.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is often used in the preparation of liquid polymer solutions for the production of fibers and films, where it helps dissolve polymers and improve their processability.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is known for its ability to stabilize lithium-based reagents in chemical reactions, making it an essential solvent in the preparation of organometallic compounds.
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a flammable solvent that should be handled with caution, but it is an invaluable solvent in many industrial applications, offering effective dissolution properties for a broad range of organic materials.

PROPERTIES

Chemical Formula: C₄H₈O
Molecular Weight: 72.11 g/mol
Common Name: Tetrahydrofuran (THF)
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Ether-like
Solubility: Miscible with water and organic solvents
Boiling Point: 65–67°C
Melting Point: -108.5°C
Density: Approx. 0.889 g/cm³
Vapor Pressure: 162 mmHg at 20°C
Flash Point: -21°C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: Approx. 321°C
Stability: Requires stabilizers (e.g., BHT) to prevent peroxide formation
Storage Temperature: Store below 25°C, away from heat/sparks
Shelf Life: 12–18 months when stabilized and properly stored

FIRST AID

Inhalation:
Move individual to fresh air.
If breathing difficulty occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Skin Contact:
Wash affected area with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing.
Seek medical advice if irritation persists.

Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
Consult a physician if discomfort continues.

Ingestion:
Do not induce vomiting.
Rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention.

Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
Monitor for respiratory depression and CNS effects.

HANDLING AND STORAGE

Handling:
Use only in well-ventilated areas with explosion-proof equipment.
Wear gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing.
Avoid sources of ignition and accumulation of vapors.

Spill and Leak Procedures:
Eliminate ignition sources and ventilate area.
Absorb with inert material and dispose of according to regulations.

Storage:
Store Tetrahydrofuran in tightly sealed containers, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Use containers with inert gas blanket and peroxide inhibitors.
Keep away from oxidizing agents and acids.

Handling Cautions:
Monitor for peroxide formation regularly.
Do not distill to dryness; use appropriate PPE when opening containers.