Solvents
REACH
Tetrahydrofuran
CAS Number
109-99-9
EC Number
203-726-8
Abbreviation
THF
What is Tetrahydrofuran?
Tetrahydrofuran (CAS 109-99-9), commonly known as THF or oxolane, is a cyclic ether solvent with exceptional miscibility across both polar and non-polar systems.
Where is Tetrahydrofuran used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: reaction solvent and extraction medium
- Process chemistry: solvates organolithium and Grignard reagents during API synthesis
- PVC adhesives and coatings: primary solvent for strong substrate bonding in pipe fittings
- Footwear and industrial laminates
- Polymerization solvent in production of polytetramethylene ether glycol (PTMEG), a key intermediate for spandex fibers and polyurethane elastomers
- Analytical and QC laboratories: standard HPLC mobile phase component for separating polymers and pharmaceutical compounds
- It dissolves a broad range of polymers, resins, and active compounds.
Good to know: Anhydrous and stabilized grades are the most common commercial forms; stabilizer-free variants are available for sensitive synthesis applications.
Commercial specifications
- Clear liquid in drums, IBCs, and bulk tanker quantities
Other Names (Synonyms)
tetramethylene oxide|Oxolane|diethylene oxide|Cyclotetramethylene oxide|butylene oxide|butane alpha,delta-oxide|Butane a,D-oxide|1,4-epoxybutane|THF
What are the physical properties of Tetrahydrofuran?
Melting Point -108.3 °C
Boiling Point 65 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density 0.8892 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point >230 °F
Appearance Tetrahydrofuran is a colorless liquid. Ethereal odor. The Odor Threshold is listed @ 3.8 (3M), 20-50 ppm, and 31 ppm.
Color <10(APHA)
Odor Ethereal, detectable at 2 to 50 ppm
Form Liquid
Water Solubility miscible
Vapor Pressure <0.01 mm Hg ( 25 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.465
pH 7-8 (200g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P 0.45 at 25℃
How is Tetrahydrofuran classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P240 Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Tetrahydrofuran?
HS Code 29321100
UN Number 2924
ADR Class 3
Packing Group II
Storage Class 3 - Flammable liquids
WGK (Germany) 1