2-Methylfuran

Agent Name
2-Methylfuran
CAS Number
534-22-5
Formula
C5-H6-O
Major Category
Other Classes
2-Methylfuran formula graphical representation
Synonyms
5-Methylfuran; Silvan [Czech]; Sylvan; alpha-Methylfuran; Furan, 2-methyl-; Methylfuran; [ChemIDplus] 2-Metilfurano (Spanish DOT); Methyl-2 furanne (French DOT); [CAMEO] UN2301
Category
Ethers, Other
Description
Clear colorless liquid with an ethereal odor; [CAMEO] Clear light yellow liquid; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Sources/Uses
Used as flavoring agent or adjuvant; [FDA]
Comments
Causes liver changes and somnolence in inhalation studies of rats; [RTECS] Furan-substituted aliphatic hydrocarbons have not been evaluated for safe use as flavoring agents due to "unresolved toxicological concerns", mainly being the carcinogenicity of furan in animal experiments; [JECFA] Contains 0.024% BHT (CAS# 128-37-0) as a stabilizer; May cause irritation; Toxic by inhalation; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS] See "Furan."
Biomedical References
Search PubMed

Exposure Assessment

Vapor Pressure
142 mm Hg
Lethal Concentration
LC50 (rat) = 500 ppm/4hr
Explanatory Notes
LC50 (rat) = 8,300 mg/m3/4hr; [RTECS]
NFPA
may ignite at ambient temp

Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin
Acute solvent syndrome
Hepatotoxin
Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent: