Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol forms part of a family of organic compounds often recognized for their versatility in industrial and research environments. Known for its unique ringed structure with a methanol side group, this chemical draws attention thanks to its practical use as both a building block and an intermediate within synthetic pathways. Never just a laboratory curiosity, Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol comes up in everything from drug discovery pipelines to new materials research. As a colorless liquid or, in some cases, crystals depending on storage conditions, it bridges the smell of solvents and the sharp tang of alcohol. Its molecular formula, C5H10O2, brings together a tetrahydrofuran (THF) ring substituted at the 3-position with a methyl alcohol group, providing both reactivity and solubility useful in formulation labs and chemical plants alike.
The specific density generally floats around 1.073 g/cm³ at room temperature, a value that spells out exactly why it mixes well with water and many organic solvents. Its structure leads to a moderate melting point that means, depending on conditions, you might see it as small colorless crystals or as a quickly evaporating liquid. Boiling occurs near 183°C, so it stands up to moderate heating in flasks or reactors. With that alcohol group dangling from the third carbon in the ring, Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol ends up more reactive than some simple ethers but still not as volatile as raw methanol. Chemists appreciate how this compound’s melting and boiling points provide predictable performance, reducing the sort of unpredictable behavior that can foul up downstream steps or cleanups.
In terms of appearance, Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol finds its way into inventories in several physical forms—from small crystalline flakes to neat liquids. Shelf stability holds up well under dry, cool, well-capped conditions, but care must be taken to avoid high heat or strong acids, as both can degrade the molecule. Those who produce the raw material usually emphasize the need for well-ventilated facilities and suitable chemical storage protocols, all to prevent unwanted exposure or degradation. Solubility data demonstrate that this compound dissolves quickly in water, alcohols, and even low-polarity solvents due to its balanced structure and functional groups. This trait stands out in laboratory and pilot processes, making cleanup and downstream separation easier than with many other ring ether compounds.
What makes its structure distinctive comes down to the pairing of the tetrahydrofuran ring—a five-membered ether with decent chemical stability—and the placement of a hydroxymethyl group off the third carbon. This simple molecular tweak translates into meaningful reactivity and compatibility with broad swathes of raw materials. In practical, day-to-day chemical work, that means Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol plays nicely with a wide range of reaction partners, and rarely throws off unforeseen byproducts. Its ability to act as both hydrogen bond acceptor (ether) and donor (alcohol) often gives it an edge as an intermediate, especially in research and development environments where new molecular frameworks need thorough testing.
Density figures and physical state data always matter in chemical processing, both for safety and for practical handling. Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol’s molecular weight, sitting at 102.13 g/mol, means it sits right between smaller solvents and bulkier intermediates. Considerations over flakes versus liquid or powder form usually come down to storage and the equipment available in a given facility. Each batch that comes from the reactor might arrive as solid pearls or fine powder, but most facilities prefer delivering the liquid or crystal form by the liter for consistency in measuring and dispensing.
Trade and logistics operations will reference the Harmonized System (HS) Code, essential for moving chemicals across borders. Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol commonly sits within the HS bracket for organic chemicals, often ending up under a sub-category designated for “ethers, ether-alcohols, ether-phenols and their derivatives,” with the exact code assigned depending on jurisdiction and chemical purity. These codes do more than lubricate customs—they shape how companies price, declare, and transport chemicals from one market to another. Documentation must always reflect the correct molecular formula, density, physical state, and declaration of chemical hazards.
As a raw material, Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol builds value through its two active sites: the ether ring and the methanol group. Medicinal chemists reach for it when constructing more complicated molecules, since its structure transfers easily and cleanly under established reaction conditions. Polymer researchers bring it into play as both an initiator and a chain extender—with the hydroxymethyl arm opening up downstream chemistry. Process engineers trust the predictable boiling point and defined density, which both lighten the load on environmental safety checks during pilot and production scale-ups. Certain fine chemicals require its presence to modify bulk properties or provide finishing steps involving crystallization or purification.
Safety must always factor into handling materials like Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol. As a chemical classified as hazardous under globally harmonized systems, it requires labeling and safe storage. Direct skin or eye contact can bring irritation; inhaling concentrated vapors causes headaches or respiratory effects. Past studies note its flammability, so laboratories typically store it in tightly capped containers with safe distance from ignition sources. Workers—especially those handling drums, liters, or large batches—use splash-proof goggles, gloves, and well-ventilated workspaces, along with chemical spill kits nearby. Only careful inventory management and professional attitude keep risks low and productivity high, especially during routine transfer, measuring, or purification.
Inappropriate disposal practices for Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol endanger water systems, so regulatory compliance becomes more than a box-ticking exercise. Most countries demand tracking usage and ensuring spent solutions head into certified waste management, not ordinary drains. Persistent vigilance shields both worker safety and the broader environment. Workplace spill-response training and regular audit trails also help companies keep accidents off the record and communities clear of hazardous leaks. Since organics such as this cannot easily biodegrade without specialized processing, responsible sourcing and disposal stay woven into every step, from procurement to final cleanup.
Tetrahydrofuran-3-methanol provides a direct connection between innovation and industrial progress, rewarding thoroughness at every stage—from understanding its physical properties to rigorously applying safe handling. As with all potent materials, wise management and clear-eyed risk assessment pay off in stronger outcomes, not just for lab workers and engineers but for the entire supply chain. Careful attention to specification sheets, adherence to HS codes, and systematic environmental safeguards form a solid foundation for anyone working with this dynamic chemical raw material.
