Furfural
Product Description
Furfural is a heterocyclic aldehyde derived from agricultural biomass, such as corncobs, oat hulls, and sugarcane bagasse.
Product:
Furfural
CAS:
98-01-1
Synonym:
2-Furaldehyde; Furan-2-carboxaldehyde
Structure:
Typical Characteristics
Appearance
Colorless to amber liquid
Boiling point
162 °C
Density
1.16 g/cm3
Flash Point
60 °C
Melting point
−36 °C
Molecular Weight
96.08
Odor
Almond-like odor
Purity
99%
Refractive index
1.525
Uses, Applications & Markets
Key applications
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Furfural used in many
industry applications
Furfural is an organic compound with the chemical formula C5H4O2. It is a heterocyclic aldehyde derived from agricultural biomass, such as corncobs, oat hulls, and sugarcane bagasse. Furfural has several industrial applications, including:
- Chemical Intermediates: Furfural serves as a versatile building block for the synthesis of various chemical intermediates and derivatives. It undergoes numerous chemical reactions, including hydrogenation, oxidation, and condensation, to produce compounds like furfuryl alcohol, furan, and maleic anhydride.
- Resins and Polymers: Furfural-based resins and polymers are used in adhesive formulations, foundry binders, and composite materials. Furfural resins exhibit excellent adhesive properties, high thermal stability, and good resistance to water, chemicals, and weathering, making them suitable for diverse industrial applications.
- Solvents: Furfural can function as a solvent for various organic compounds, such as resins, oils, waxes, and rubber. It is utilized in solvent-based processes, including extraction, purification, and separation operations in the petrochemical, pharmaceutical, and flavoring industries.
- Agricultural Chemicals: Furfural and its derivatives have applications in agricultural chemicals, including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides. They can be used as active ingredients or formulation components to control pests, diseases, and weeds in crops, forests, and gardens.
- Flavor and Fragrance: Furfural contributes to the flavor and fragrance of certain foods, beverages, and personal care products. It imparts a sweet, nutty, caramel-like aroma and taste to baked goods, confectionery items, coffee, and alcoholic beverages, enhancing their sensory appeal.
- Lubricants and Additives: Furfural-based lubricants and additives are employed in the automotive, aerospace, and industrial sectors. They provide lubricity, anti-wear, and anti-corrosion properties to lubricating oils, hydraulic fluids, metalworking fluids, and fuel additives, improving equipment performance and longevity.