THF

THF (Tetrahydrofuran) is a stable compound with relatively low boiling point and excellent solvency. It is widely-used for dissolution and reaction of various substances. Also it is used as a starting material for the synthesis of poly(tetramethylene ether) glycol (PTMG), etc. Since 1982, Mitsubishi Chemical's Yokkaichi plant has produced high-purity, high-quality THF from butadiene using our proprietary technology.

  • CAS: No. 109-99-9 (T)
  • EINECS: No. 203-726-8
  • Japan, Chemical Substances Control Law: METI-No. 5-53
  • Japan, Industrial Safety and Health Law: No. 5-53, ID No. 367 (SDS required)
  • Japan, Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Law: Not applicable.
  • Japan, Fire Services Law: Hazardous Material Class 4 Petroleums No.1 (water-soluble liquid). Hazardous Rank II
  • U.N. Class: 3
  • U.N. No.: UN2056

Inquiries

Characteristics

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THF is a 5-membered-ring heterocyclic compound containing oxygen --- a cyclic ether.

Common Names Tetrahydrofuran,
1,4-epoxy-butane, oxolane,
Butylene oxide,
cyclotetramethylene oxide,
oxacyclopentane,
diethylene oxide,
tetra-methylene oxide
Structure THF
CAS No. 109-99-9
Japan, Chemical Substances Control Law METI-No. (5)-53
Japan, Poisonous and Deleterious Substances Control Law Not applicable
Japan, Fire Services Law Hazardous Material Class 4 Petroleums No.1 water-soluble liquid Hazardous Rank II
Molecular Weight 72.1
Appearance Clear colorless liquid
Odor Ether smell
Specific Gravity (25/4℃) 0.888
Viscosity(mPa・s) 0.58(at 20℃)
Boiling Point (℃) 66
Melting / Freezing Point (℃) -108.5
Flash Point (℃) -17
Flammability Range / Explosive Limits (vol% in air) upper:11.8
lower:2.0
Vapor Pressure (kPa) 18.9(20℃)
Heat of Vaporization (kJ/mol) 29.6(66℃)
Heat Capacity (kJ/kg・K) 1.77(20℃)
Thermal Conductivity (W/m・K) 0.18(20℃)
Surface Tension (N/m) 26.4×10-3(25℃)
Volume Resistivity (Ω・cm) 1.3×103(23℃)

Using butadiene as the raw material, Mitsubishi Chemical's proprietary technology enables production of high-purity, high-grade THF.  Thorough quality control makes it possible to offer product with low moisture content.

Applications

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  • Surface Coating
    Due to the strong solubility of vinyl chloride, even at a high degree of polymerization, THF is used as a solvent for synthetic leather coatings.
  • Adhesives
    Taking advantage of excellent solubility and diffusion properties, THF is used as a solvent for vinyl and epoxy adhesives.
  • Film Casting
    THF is used for vinyl chloride heat-shrinkable film and for desiccant.
  • Printing Inks
    THF is suitable for printing inks, because slightly soluble inorganic compounds can be dissolved and evaporation is quick.
  • Other Uses
    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.  In, addition, it is used as a solvent for Grignard and Wittig reactions.  Also in pharmaceutical and agricultural manufacturing, it is used as a solvent for reaction and purification.

Storage and Handling

THF is classified under the Japanese Fire Services Act as a hazardous material, Class 4, Petroleums No.1, water soluble, Hazardous Rank II.  Since it is highly volatile and flammable, the storage container should be tightly sealed and stored in a well-ventilated place.  When handling take precautions against fire.  Like other ethers, explosive peroxides will be generated if THF is exposed to oxygen or air.  For this reason the container should be sealed with dry nitrogen.
THF is irritating to the membranes and skin of the eyes, nose, and throat.  Exposure to the vapor for long time periods may cause organic solvent poisoning symptoms such as nausea and dizziness.  Use adequate ventilation to avoid high concentrations of vapor.  When using or handling, always use proper safety equipment such as protective gloves and goggles.

Specifications/Quantities

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Product Specifications

Item Specification
Hue (Hazen) <10
Moisture (%) <0.02
Specific Gravity (20/4℃) 0.886~0.889
Purity (%) >99.95
Peroxide (ppm) <100

As an antioxidant, 250 ppm of BHT (2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) are usually added.

Available Quantities

Tanker Truckload (Lorry) 10ton
Drum 180kg
Oilcan 15kg

Inquiries Concerning Products


Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
C4 & PBT Dept.

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