Furfuryl alcohol, also known as FA, is an important organic compound with the chemical formula C5H6O2 and molecular weight of 98.10. This versatile chemical intermediate is produced through the catalytic hydrogenation of furfural derived from renewable biomass resources. Furfuryl alcohol is characterized as a clear to yellowish liquid that may darken upon exposure to air or light, with a distinctive mild, warm-oily odor. It has a density of approximately 1.135 g/mL at 25°C and a boiling point of 170°C.
Properties and Characteristics
Furfuryl alcohol demonstrates excellent solubility in water, alcohol, ether, acetone, ethyl acetate, and various other organic solvents. However, it shows limited solubility in non-polar petroleum hydrocarbons. This compound has a freezing point of -29°C and a flash point of 65°C, requiring careful handling and storage considerations. Its molecular structure consists of a furan ring with a hydroxymethyl group attached, providing both stability and reactivity for various chemical transformations.
Industrial Applications and Uses
Furfuryl alcohol serves as a fundamental building block in chemical synthesis, particularly for producing furan resins widely used in foundry binders for metal casting operations. These resins demonstrate excellent thermal stability and corrosion resistance, making them valuable in manufacturing abrasives, refractories, and composite materials.
In the agricultural sector, furfuryl alcohol finds application as an intermediate in producing crop protection products. The pharmaceutical industry utilizes it for synthesizing certain medications and vitamin precursors. Additionally, it functions as an effective solvent for resins, paints, and varnishes, particularly those based on phenol-formaldehyde, epoxy, and other synthetic polymers.
The food industry recognizes furfuryl alcohol as a flavoring substance (FEMA 2491), where it is employed in formulating caramel-like flavor profiles for various products including beverages, candies, and baked goods. However, it is used in minimal quantities strictly following appropriate safety guidelines and regulatory requirements.
Technical Specifications and Quality Standards
Industrial-grade furfuryl alcohol typically assays at approximately 98% purity, with quality parameters established by national standards. The Chinese national standard for industrial furfuryl alcohol is currently undergoing revision to update testing methodologies and integrate previous separate standards for the product and its test methods. These revisions include updating moisture content determination to Karl Fischer method and modifying analytical techniques for density and aldehyde content measurements.
Market Overview and Production
Global production capacity of furfuryl alcohol is estimated at approximately 400,000 metric tons annually, with actual production typically ranging between 230,000-250,000 metric tons per year. China represents a significant producer and exporter of furfuryl alcohol, with approximately 70-80% of production consumed domestically, primarily for manufacturing furan resins. The remaining 20-30% is exported to international markets including Japan, South Korea, Belgium, and Germany.
Handling and Safety Considerations
Proper handling of furfuryl alcohol requires appropriate safety measures due to its classification as a harmful substance. It is recommended to use personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection when handling this compound. Adequate ventilation should be maintained in working areas, and contact with skin and eyes should be avoided.
Storage conditions require sealing containers to protect from light and maintaining a cool environment. Compatibility considerations include avoiding proximity to strong acids during storage. Recommended container materials include iron, mild steel, or aluminum.
Regulatory information indicates that furfuryl alcohol is classified as a hazardous substance with specific exposure limits established. The NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) is 10 ppm (40 mg/m³) as an 8-hour TWA and 15 ppm (60 mg/m³) as a short-term exposure limit.
Environmental Profile and Sustainability
As a derivative of renewable biomass resources, furfuryl alcohol offers environmental advantages compared to petroleum-based alternatives. The production process utilizes agricultural byproducts, contributing to waste valorization and circular economy principles in the chemical industry.
This versatile chemical intermediate continues to find expanding applications across multiple industries due to its unique properties and renewable origin. Ongoing research focuses on developing new applications and improving production processes to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
When selecting a furfuryl alcohol supplier, considerations should include consistent quality, reliable supply chain, technical support capabilities, and compliance with relevant safety and environmental regulations. Appropriate documentation including safety data sheets and technical specifications should be available from suppliers to ensure safe handling and application of this valuable chemical compound.
Post time: Sep-22-2025