Tetrahydrofuran (THF)

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a versatile cyclic ether solvent widely used across industries for its excellent solvency power, low viscosity, and water miscibility.

Appearance:
Colorless transparent liquid
CAS No.:
109-99-9
Molecular Formula:
C4H8O
Molecular Weight:
72.11
EINECS:
203-726-8
Solubility:
Soluble in water

Availability:



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Product Description

Product Description

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a colorless, volatile liquid with a characteristic ether-like odor. It is a polar aprotic solvent that is completely miscible with water and most organic solvents.

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is a versatile cyclic ether solvent widely used across industries for its excellent solvency power, low viscosity, and water miscibility.

Technical Specifications

ITEMS	SPECIFICATIONS
Appearance	Colorless transparent liquid
THF Purity	≥99.95%
Hydrogen Peroxide Content	≤0.003%
Moisture Content	≤0.015%
Color	≤5
BHT Content	120±30 ug/g

Packaging & Storage

Net weight 180kg drum, 14.4MT/20'FCL with pallets.
Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources.

Benefits of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)

Excellent Solvency:

Dissolves a wide range of resins, polymers, and organic compounds, including PVC, polyurethane precursors, and organometallics.

Low Viscosity and High Volatility:

Enables fast evaporation and efficient solvent recovery with minimal residue.

Water Miscibility:

Facilitates reactions in mixed aqueous-organic systems.

Chemical Stability:

Performs well under strongly basic conditions and with Grignard reagents or anionic polymerization.

Reaction Medium:

Enhances reaction rates and yields in specialty syntheses.

Applications and Uses of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)

Tetrahydrofuran is a critical solvent and reaction medium in multiple high-value industries.

Polymer and Plastics Industry

Primary solvent and monomer for producing Polytetramethylene Ether Glycol (PTMEG), a key intermediate for polyurethane elastomers, spandex fibers, and flexible foams.
Solvent for PVC cements, vinyl films, cellophane coatings, and magnetic tape binders.
Used in adhesives and coatings formulations for rapid dissolution and uniform application.

Pharmaceutical Industry

Reaction solvent for synthesizing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), antibiotics, and antiviral drugs.
Ideal medium for organometallic reactions and polymer-based drug delivery systems due to its broad solvency and ease of removal.

Chemical Synthesis and Other Uses

Solvent for Grignard reagents, anionic polymerization, and specialty organic reactions.
Applications in printing inks, natural product extraction, industrial resins, and elastomers.
Cleaning agent for rigid plastic pipes and molded parts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Tetrahydrofuran (THF) water-soluble?

A: Yes, THF is completely miscible with water in all proportions and mixes well with most organic solvents.

Q: Why is THF often stabilized with BHT?

A: Stabilization with BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) prevents the formation of explosive peroxides when THF is exposed to air and light during storage.

Q: What are the main industrial uses of THF?

A: The primary uses include production of PTMEG for polyurethanes, solvent for PVC and coatings, reaction solvent in pharmaceutical synthesis, and medium for Grignard and polymerization reactions.

Q: How should THF be stored to maintain quality?

A: Store in tightly closed, grounded containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area protected from light and heat.

Q: What are the hazards of working with THF?

A: THF is highly flammable with a low flash point and can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system. It may cause drowsiness or dizziness and has suspected carcinogenic potential with chronic exposure.