3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran catches attention in the world of organic chemistry as a versatile compound rooted in the tetrahydrofuran (THF) family. Unlike the parent THF, this compound carries an extra amino group hooked to the third carbon of the ring, which really changes how it behaves. At room temperature, it can present as a clear liquid or sometimes a slightly viscous solution, though in colder conditions, it’s not rare to see solidified flakes or crystals. Usually, laboratories and manufacturers use this chemical as a starting material for more complex molecules, especially in medicine and advanced polymers. The HS Code for trade and regulatory labeling is 2932190090, which points to organic compounds with nitrogen heteroatoms.
Looking under the hood, the structure of 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran stands out because you have a tetrahydrofuran ring—a five-membered ring with four carbons and one oxygen. Tacked onto the third carbon, an aminomethyl group (-CH2NH2) brings both a functional and reactive twist. The molecular formula reads C5H11NO, and the molecular weight comes out to roughly 101.15 g/mol. Not much smell, which is a plus in the lab, and its density falls near 0.98 g/cm3, hovering just below water. I’ve handled this as a sticky oil more than once due to its amine group, and once you try dissolving it, you’ll notice a high level of solubility in water and common organic solvents. The presence of the amino group also grants it the ability to engage in hydrogen bonding, influencing its crystalline form and how it packs as a solid, should it crystallize.
On the market, manufacturers typically offer 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran as a colorless to light yellow liquid, supplied by the liter or in bulk drums. In some labs that need small runs, you’ll sometimes find it as white crystalline flakes or in a fine powder form. Each form, whether liquid or crystal, stems from storage temperature, purity, and the specific synthesis process followed. Most suppliers guarantee purity above 98%, as even minor contamination can disrupt downstream synthesis. Particle size or crystal habit rarely plays a central role in defining quality, but ensuring airtight packaging matters—a compound like this with an amine will pick up moisture or react with atmospheric carbon dioxide if left open.
Anyone handling 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran recognizes its dual nature—useful and potentially risky. The primary property of concern arises from the amine group. Even though it’s no acutely hazardous chemical by many standards, exposure brings risks. Vapors can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Liquid splashes or accidental spills can cause chemical burns—gloves and decent ventilation become the norm, not just best practice. At low concentrations in solution, toxicity remains mild, though chronic or careless exposure may add up. The material has a flash point in the range near 85°C, which isn’t especially low but calls for fire-safe practices all the same. Waste disposal also requires attention, since release to the environment risks waterway contamination, and it’s best neutralized and handed to approved chemical waste streams.
Raw materials like this show up across industries—from pharmaceuticals to manufacturing advanced plastics. Medicinal chemists rely on it as a key ‘building block’ for making drug intermediates and new active compounds, mostly because amines pop up everywhere in biologically active molecules. In polymer research, the functionality of both the ether and amine groups drives its use in novel cross-linking applications. The molecule’s ring structure resists harsh breakdown, which sets it apart from straight-chain analogs—giving manufacturers a little more room to explore new material properties. It’s also been used as a reagent in the synthesis of specialty coatings and adhesives where flexibility paired with reactivity earns its keep. The density and physical stability, whether as flakes or liquid, give it versatility—one reason why it’s an attractive raw material even for those testing out new applications from scratch.
Safety asks for a thoughtful approach. Each time I worked with 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran, proper personal protective equipment—gloves, goggles, lab coats—felt non-negotiable, even for simple transfers. Good engineering controls and fume hoods cut down vapor risks. Emergency protocols and spill response plans stay on hand because a quick wipe won’t do—amino compounds stick to surfaces, and cleanup needs both neutralization and scrubbing. On a larger scale, environmental controls demand closed systems and effective waste treatment, as this compound, though not the worst, still poses ecological risks. The chemical’s potential harm means it rarely gets green-lighted for casual or recreational uses. Thoughtful sourcing, from reputable suppliers certified for good manufacturing practice, supports both user safety and downstream product integrity.
Chemistry evolves on the back of compounds like 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran. Research and industry keep searching for routes to safer handling—double-sealed containers, improved formulations that minimize volatility, even green chemistry steps that limit waste. Forward-thinking companies invest in staff training, integrated risk assessments, and work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance. At every step, the goal stays the same: unlock the value of this compound while keeping people and the environment out of harm’s way. With transparency, responsible sourcing, and a commitment to safe practice, 3-(Aminomethyl)tetrahydrofuran finds a role not just as a chemical, but as part of a chain leading to better materials, medicines, and outcomes.
