Tetrahydrofuran, or oxolane, is an organic compound with the formula (CH₂)₄O. The compound is classified as heterocyclic compound, specifically a cyclic ether. It is a colorless, water-miscible organic liquid with low viscosity. It is mainly used as a precursor to polymers.

Why is it called tetrahydrofuran?

That's right, it means four, for the four hydrogen atoms that have been added! Another important structural aspect of THF is that it's a polar molecule.

Is tetrahydrofuran volatile?

Tetrahydrofuran appears as a clear colorless liquid with an ethereal odor. ... It is a member of oxolanes, a saturated organic heteromonocyclic parent, a cyclic ether and a volatile organic compound.

What is the effect of tetrahydrofuran?

* Tetrahydrofuran can cause headache, nausea and dizziness. Very high exposure can cause unconsciousness and death. * Tetrahydrofuran may damage the liver and kidneys. * Tetrahydrofuran is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID and a DANGEROUS FIRE HAZARD.

How is tetrahydrofuran used?

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is commonly used as solvent, reaction medium, and starting material for various syntheses in the chemical industry, for example, for preparing adhesives, special paints, coatings, fibers, in the extraction of specific active substances, for recrystallization of certain compounds or as starting ...

Tetrahydrofuran

How do you handle tetrahydrofuran?

Precautions for safe handling Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist. Use explosion-proof equipment. Keep away from sources of ignition - No smoking.

Does acetonitrile freeze?

Acetonitrile has a eutectic temperature, or freezing point, of -42˚C. Because of this, a standard -50˚C collector is not cold enough to trap the solvent. A cascade -84˚C model is required to freeze dry and effectively trap the solvents.

Does tetrahydrofuran evaporate?

I, on the other hand, use THF for the same polymer and it evaporates in room temperature. ... In high speed air flow around solution THF evaporates quickly.

Why is tetrahydrofuran used as a solvent?

THF is widely used as a solvent for special resins such as photosensitive resins, because even at room temperature it can dissolve various resins, and it is miscible with water and most organic solvents.

Is tetrahydrofuran miscible in water?

If two substances are miscible, they are also completely soluble in one another irrespective of the order of introduction. For example, tetrahydrofuran (THF) and water are miscible.

Is tetrahydrofuran a peroxide former?

Peroxide-forming chemicals are a class of compounds that have the ability to form shock-sensitive explosive peroxide crystals. ... Ethers are the most commonly used peroxide formers at WCM such as tetrahydrofuran, dioxane, diethyl ether, isopropyl ether.

Does tetrahydrofuran react with sodium?

Sodium—cesium alloy was permitted to react with tetrahydrofuran as a model for the lithium electrode. The products of this reaction were treated with methyl bromide. The NMR of the final products gives evidence that cleaved tetrahydrofuran reacts with more tetrahydrofuran to form derivatives of itself.

How Polar is heptane?

Heptane is a nonpolar molecule.

How flammable is heptane?

* n-Heptane is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID. * Use dry chemical, CO2, alcohol or polymer foam extinguishers, as water may not be effective in fighting fires. ... * Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. * Vapor is heavier than air and may travel a distance to cause a fire or explosion far from the source.