Giving a detail introduction to Tetrahydrofuran

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a synthesized organic compound that is not found in the natural environment (ACGIH, 2001). It is a colorless, volatile liquid with an ethereal or acetone-like smell and is miscible in water and most organic solvents.

The follow table summarizes the physical and chemical properties of Tetrahydrofuran. Tetrahydrofuran is highly flammable and upon thermal decomposition may form carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Under certain conditions, such as prolonged storage in contact with air, Tetrahydrofuran can decompose into explosive peroxides.

CAS Registry Number	109-99-9
Synonym(s)	THF, diethyleneoxide, tetramethyleneoxide, 1,4 -epoxy butane, furanidine, oxacyclopentane
Melting point, °C	-108.5
Boiling point, °C	65/66
Density, at 20°C relative to the density of H2O at 4°C	0.89
Flashpoint (closed cup)	1 to -21.5°C
Water solubility	Miscible
Log Kow	0.46
Odor threshold	2–7.4 ppm60–150 mg/m3
Molecular weight	72.10
Conversion factors	1 ppm = 2.95 mg/m3
Empirical formula	C4H8O

Tetrahydrofuran is used as a solvent for polyvinyl chlorides, vinylidene chloride polymers, and natural and synthetic resins (particularly vinyls), and in topcoating solutions, polymer coatings, cellophane, protective coatings, adhesives, magnetic strips, and printing inks. It is also used for Grignard and metal hydride reactions.

Tetrahydrofuran is used as an intermediate in chemical synthesis. For example, it is used in the preparation of chemicals, including adipic acid, butadiene, acrylic 2-2 acid, butyrolactone, succinic acid, 1,4-butanediol diacetate, motor fuels, vitamins, hormones, pharmaceuticals, synthetic perfumes, organometallic compounds, and insecticides. It is also used in the manufacture of polytetramethylene ether glycol, polyurethane elastomers, and elastic polymers.

Tetrahydrofuran can be used in the fabrication of materials for food packaging, transport, and storage. When Tetrahydrofuran is used in food processing, it can be an indirect food additive

Potential exposures to humans result from anthropogenic sources, primarily from occupational exposures related to THF’s use as a solvent for resins, adhesives, printers’ ink, and coatings. Exposure to Tetrahydrofuran is primarily through inhalation or dermal absorption in the workplace. Nonoccupational exposure is uncommon, but may occur via inhalation and oral routes from contamination of the environment (air and water).

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