Tetrahydrofuran

Tetrahydrofuran (THF) 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. Being polar and having a wide liquid range, THF is a versatile solvent.

Production

About 7008200000000000000♠200000 t of tetrahydrofuran are produced annually. The most widely used industrial process involves the acid-catalyzed dehydration of 1,4-butanediol. The method is similar to the production of diethyl ether from ethanol. The butanediol is derived from condensation of acetylene with formaldehyde followed by hydrogenation.Du Pont developed a process for producing THF by oxidizing n-butane to crude maleic anhydride, followed by catalytic hydrogenation. A third major industrial route entails hydroformylation of allyl alcohol followed by hydrogenation to the butanediol.

Other methods

THF can also be synthesized by catalytic hydrogenation of furan.Certain sugars can be converted to THF, although this method is not widely practiced. Furan is thus derivable from renewable resources.