> Category: Polar Aprotic Solvent | Molecular Formula: C4H8O | Molecular Weight: 72.11 | CAS: 109-99-9
What Is Tetrahydrofuran (THF) Used For?
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (CAS 109-99-9) is a polar aprotic solvent primarily used in grignard and organolithium reaction medium. THF remains one of the top-10 highest-volume organic solvents worldwide. Its unique combination of moderate polarity (dielectric constant 7.6), low boiling point, and excellent solvation of organometallic reagents makes it irreplaceable in Grignard chemistry. The polymer-grade THF segment (for polytetramethylene ether glycol/PTMEG production) accounts for over 40% of global consumption. With the pharmaceutical contract manufacturing market expanding rapidly in Asia-Pacific, THF demand continues to grow.
With a molecular formula of C4H8O and molecular weight of 72.11 g/mol [001], Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is colorless liquid with ether-like odor and miscible with water and most organic solvents [002]. The global market for this compound class was valued at $2.74 billion (2024), growing at a CAGR of 4.07% [003].
How Does Tetrahydrofuran (THF) Work in Chemical Reactions?
The mechanism of action of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) depends on its structural features. With InChIKey WYURNTSHIVDZCO-UHFFFAOYSA-N [001], Tetrahydrofuran (THF) functions through THF remains one of the top-10 highest-volume organic solvents worldwide....
Key mechanistic features include:
- Structural specificity: The molecular architecture of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (IUPAC: oxolane [001]) determines its reactivity profile and selectivity
- Solubility profile: Miscible with water and most organic solvents [002], enabling compatibility with diverse reaction conditions
- Functional group tolerance: Compatible with a wide range of functional groups commonly encountered in multi-step synthesis
For industrial applications, Tetrahydrofuran (THF) has been optimized for scalability. The compound's colorless liquid with ether-like odor facilitates handling, and its well-characterized properties enable reproducible process chemistry across batch sizes ranging from milligram to kilogram scale.
What Are the Key Applications of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)?
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) serves critical roles across multiple chemical sectors [004]:
- Grignard and organolithium reaction medium
- Polymer synthesis (PTMEG for spandex/elastomers)
- Pharmaceutical API manufacturing solvent
- PVC cement and adhesive formulations
The diversity of applications reflects the compound's versatility. In pharmaceutical synthesis, Tetrahydrofuran (THF) enables key bond-forming reactions that would be difficult or impossible with alternative reagents. In materials chemistry, it provides access to polymers and advanced materials with tailored properties.
What Are the Physical and Chemical Properties of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)?
Understanding the physical properties of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (CAS 109-99-9) is essential for safe handling and optimal experimental design [001] [002]:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 109-99-9 |
| Molecular Formula | C4H8O |
| Molecular Weight | 72.11 g/mol |
| IUPAC Name | oxolane |
| InChIKey | WYURNTSHIVDZCO-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid with ether-like odor |
| Melting Point | -108 °C |
| Boiling Point | 65-67 °C |
| Density | 0.889 g/mL at 25 °C |
Solubility characteristics: Miscible with water and most organic solvents [002]. These properties dictate the choice of reaction medium, workup procedures, and purification strategies when working with Tetrahydrofuran (THF).
What Is the Market Outlook for Tetrahydrofuran (THF)?
The global market for this class of compounds demonstrates robust growth [003]. The market was valued at $2.74 billion (2024), with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.07% [003].
Three forces drive demand:
- Pharmaceutical R&D expansion: Over 60% of the demand for high-purity polar aprotic solvents originates from pharmaceutical research and manufacturing, driven by the increasing pipeline of small-molecule drug candidates
- Asia-Pacific manufacturing growth: China and India account for approximately 45% of global consumption, reflecting the migration of pharmaceutical intermediate manufacturing to the region [003]
- Green chemistry adoption: The shift toward sustainable synthesis methods favors reagents with favorable E-factors and aqueous compatibility
The market report by 24ChemicalResearch, THF Market Report 2025-2032 projects continued expansion through 2032, driven by these structural demand drivers [003].
How Should Tetrahydrofuran (THF) Be Safely Handled and Stored?
Proper handling of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) requires attention to standard laboratory safety protocols. Key considerations:
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep container tightly closed when not in use
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate gloves (nitrile recommended), safety goggles, and lab coat
- Ventilation: Use in a fume hood or well-ventilated area
- Incompatibilities: Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents and incompatible materials
Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) from your supplier before handling. The SDS provides detailed information on hazards, first aid measures, firefighting procedures, and disposal considerations specific to the grade and formulation you are using [002].
Frequently Asked Questions About Tetrahydrofuran (THF)
What is the CAS number of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)?
The CAS Registry Number of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is 109-99-9. This unique identifier is assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service and is recognized globally for unambiguous chemical identification [001].
Is Tetrahydrofuran (THF) water-soluble?
Miscible with water and most organic solvents. Miscible with water and most organic solvents [002]. This solubility profile is critical for selecting appropriate reaction solvents and workup conditions.
What is the molecular weight of Tetrahydrofuran (THF)?
The molecular weight of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (109-99-9) is 72.11 g/mol, based on its molecular formula C4H8O [001].
Where can I buy Tetrahydrofuran (THF) with fast shipping?
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is widely available from major chemical suppliers including Sigma-Aldrich (catalog #401757), Thermo Fisher Scientific, TCI America, and other regional distributors. For research quantities, most suppliers offer next-day delivery in major markets. Bulk and custom quantities typically require 1-4 weeks lead time. CoreyChem also stocks Tetrahydrofuran (THF) at competitive prices with global shipping.
What are the main applications of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) in industry?
The primary industrial applications of Tetrahydrofuran (THF) include: Grignard and organolithium reaction medium; Polymer synthesis (PTMEG for spandex/elastomers); Pharmaceutical API manufacturing solvent; and PVC cement and adhesive formulations [004].
What is the difference between Tetrahydrofuran (THF) and similar reagents?
Unlike structurally related alternatives, Tetrahydrofuran (THF) offers unique structural and reactivity features. This differentiated performance profile makes it the preferred choice for the specific applications listed above [004].
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Where to Buy Tetrahydrofuran (THF) (CAS 109-99-9)
Tetrahydrofuran (THF) is available in the CoreyChem catalog. [View product page →](https://careerchemical.com/product/109-99-9)
CoreyChem supplies Tetrahydrofuran (THF) to research laboratories and industrial customers worldwide. Contact our sales team for bulk pricing and custom packaging options.
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References & Sources
https://www.24chemicalresearch.com/reports/284876/global-regional-thf-forecast-supply-dem-analysis-competitive-market-2025-2032-745
https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/product/aldrich/401757
