Furfuryl Alcohol

1Identification

Name

Furfuryl Alcohol

IUPAC name

furan-2-ylmethanol

CAS number

98-00-0

EC number

202-626-1

Molecular formula

C5H6O2

Molecular weight

98.1 g/mol

InChIKey

XPFVYQJUAUNWIW-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

C1=COC(=C1)CO

PubChem CID

7361

Synonyms

FURFURYL ALCOHOL, 2-Furanmethanol, 2-Furylmethanol, furan-2-ylmethanol, 2-Furancarbinol, 2-Furanylmethanol, 2-Furylcarbinol, Furfural alcohol, Furfuralcohol, 2-Furfuryl alcohol, Furfuranol, Furyl alcohol, 2-Hydroxymethylfuran, 5-Hydroxymethylfuran

Recommended uses

• Used as a solvent and as an intermediate in the manufacturing of resins and wetting agents; [Merck Index # 4305] Used as a solvent for tanning agents, dyes, and resins; also used in sealants, cements, and furan and urea-formaldehyde polymers; [HSDB] The most important use is in making poly(furfuryl alcohol) resins to bind sand-based cores and molds in foundries and to produce plastics, cements, mortars, binders, and adhesives. Resins made from furfuryl alcohol are chemical-resistant and nonburning. [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Molding and Core Making [Category: Foundry] Working with Glues and Adhesives [Category: Other] Plastic Composites Manufacturing [Category: Industry] Leather Tanning and Processing [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• As a solvent for cellulose ethers & esters, ester gum, dyes, coumarone & natural resins; in mfr of phenolic resins & dark-colored thermosetting resins; liq propellant.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Binder Monomers Processing aids not otherwise specified Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Intermediate
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Thickening agent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENT -> JECFA Functional Classes · Flavoring Agents -> JECFA Flavorings Index

Description

• Furfuryl Alcohol can cause cancer according to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• Furfuryl alcohol appears as a clear colorless liquid. Flash point 167 °F. Boiling point 171 °F. Denser than water. Contact may irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion and skin contact and moderately toxic by inhalation.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Furfuryl alcohol is a furan bearing a hydroxymethyl substituent at the 2-position. It has a role as a Maillard reaction product. It is a primary alcohol and a member of furans.
  ChEBI

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS06, GHS08

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

5 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 3 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause serious or permanent injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 2 - Materials that must be moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures before ignition can occur. Materials would not under normal conditions form hazardous atmospheres with air, but under high ambient temperatures or under moderate heating could release vapor in sufficient quantities to produce hazardous atmospheres with air.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable but that can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Inhalation causes headache, nausea, and irritation of nose and throat. Vapor irritates eyes; liquid causes inflammation and corneal opacity. Contact of skin with liquid causes dryness and irritation. Ingestion causes headache, nausea, and irritation of mouth and stomach. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · TOXIC and/or CORROSIVE; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. · Methyl bromoacetate (UN2643) is an eye irritant/lachrymator (causes flow of tears). · Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. · Avoid any skin contact. · Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Corrosives in contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. · When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Corrosives in contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. · Containers may explode when heated. · Runoff may pollute waterways. · Substance may be transported in a molten form.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Combustible. Above 75 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Asthma reported in a foundry mold making worker; [Malo] Furfuryl alcohol causes hypoactivity and respiratory tract lesions in high-dose inhalation studies of rats and mice. It causes liver damage in animals fed 1 mg/day for 60 days. Potential for sensitization, but insufficient data for DSEN or RSEN notations; [ACGIH] A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; [ICSC] Causes lacrimation and defatting of skin; [ICSC]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Water flush immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Cough. Sore throat. Dizziness. Headache. Nausea.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• MAY BE ABSORBED! Dry skin. Redness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• To fight fire use alcohol foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical ... .
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary. FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Spill · For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances. · For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary. Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Collect leaking liquid in sealable non-plastic containers. Absorb remaining liquid in inert absorbent. Wash away remainder with plenty of water. Do NOT wash away into sewer.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

7Handling and storage

• Separated from strong oxidants, acids and food and feedstuffs. Well closed. Ventilation along the floor.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ... SHOULD BE STORED IN A COOL, WELL VENTILATED PLACE, OUT OF THE DIRECT RAYS OF THE SUN, AWAY FROM AREAS OF HIGH FIRE HAZARD ... .
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Furfuryl alcohol: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced. Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Facilities for quickly drenching the body should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use where there is a possibility of exposure. [Note: It is intended that these facilities provide a sufficient quantity or flow of water to quickly remove the substance from any body areas likely to be exposed. The actual determination of what constitutes an adequate quick drench facility depends on the specific circumstances. In certain instances, a deluge shower should be readily available, whereas in others, the availability of water from a sink or hose could be considered adequate.]
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH Up to 75 ppm: (APF = 10) Any chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator* (APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: (APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode (APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• Acetyl bromide reacts violently with alcohols or water, [Merck 11th ed., 1989]. Mixtures of alcohols with concentrated sulfuric acid and strong hydrogen peroxide can cause explosions. Example: An explosion will occur if dimethylbenzylcarbinol is added to 90% hydrogen peroxide then acidified with concentrated sulfuric acid. Mixtures of ethyl alcohol with concentrated hydrogen peroxide form powerful explosives. Mixtures of hydrogen peroxide and 1-phenyl-2-methyl propyl alcohol tend to explode if acidified with 70% sulfuric acid, [Chem. Eng. News 45(43):73(1967); J, Org. Chem. 28:1893(1963)].
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Slightly soluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Strong oxidizers & acids [Note: Contact with organic acids may lead to polymerization].
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• An explosion occurred in a laboratory when cyanoacetic acid was reacted with furfuryl alcohol in an attempt to form the ester, furfuryl cyanoacetate. The explosion occurred a few minutes after the agitator was turned on and the heat applied.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• During an attempt to prepare furfuryl formate from furfuryl alcohol and concentrated formic acid, an explosion occurred.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Turns amber due to autoxidation and intermolecular dehydration during storage and turns black in presence of air
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Routes of exposure

• The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin and by ingestion.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Target organs

• Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking. Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the upper respiratory tract and kidneys. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Carcinogen classification

• Furfuryl alcohol
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• Volume 119: (2019) Some Chemicals That Cause Tumours of the Urinary Tract in Rodents
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• 2019
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)

12Ecological information

Environmental fate

• Furfuryl alcohol's production and use as a solvent, in the manufacture in resins, as a wetting agent, a gel retarder, a diluent, a liquid propellant, in flavoring, and in foundry cores may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Furfuryl alcohol is found in the smoke from burning wood. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.609 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates furfuryl alcohol will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase furfuryl alcohol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 3.7 hours.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Ecotoxicity

• LC50 Daphnia magna (Water flea) 115 mg/L/24 hr; static /formulated product/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

13Disposal considerations

• SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Incineration in a mixture with a more flammable solvent. Recommendable method: Incineration. Not recommendable method: Evaporation.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 2874

Shipping name

• UN 2874; Furfuryl alcohol
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 6.1; Furfuryl alcohol
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Furfuryl alcohol
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN2874
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Div 6.1 Poisonous materials (49 eCFR § 173.132)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Poison
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: III
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 2874 153
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• Furfuryl alcohol is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 7361 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.