(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol: Properties, Uses & Lab Guide

(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol is a racemic furan-based secondary alcohol that serves as a versatile chiral building block and synthetic intermediate in organic and medicinal chemistry research.

Chemical Name

(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol

SKU

X170274

Molecular Formula

C₆H₈O₂

Molecular Weight

112.13 g/mol

Appearance

Colorless to light yellow liquid

Functional Class

Racemic secondary alcohol; furan heterocycle

Key Application

Chiral building block, asymmetric synthesis substrate, synthetic intermediate

Overview and Physicochemical Properties

(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol (CAS not confirmed in source material; see review flags) is a racemic secondary alcohol bearing a furan ring at the 1-position of an ethanol backbone. Its molecular formula is C₆H₈O₂ with a molecular weight of approximately 112.13 g/mol. The compound presents as a colorless to light yellow liquid at room temperature.

The molecule contains two key functional moieties: a hydroxyl group conferring hydrogen-bonding capacity and reactivity toward esterification, oxidation, and nucleophilic substitution; and a furan ring providing aromatic character and opportunities for further functionalization via electrophilic or cross-coupling reactions. The racemic nature (±) indicates the material is supplied as an equal mixture of the (R)- and (S)-enantiomers, making it a useful starting material for enantioselective studies and resolution experiments.

Typical physicochemical parameters reported for this class of compound include moderate polarity, miscibility with common organic solvents (e.g., ethanol, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate), and limited water solubility. Boiling point and density values should be verified against the certificate of analysis (CoA) supplied with SKU X170274, as lot-specific data may vary.

Research Applications and Synthetic Utility

(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol is valued in synthetic organic chemistry as a versatile building block for the preparation of more complex molecules. Its principal applications include:

• Chiral building block and resolution substrate: The racemic alcohol can be subjected to enzymatic kinetic resolution (e.g., using lipases such as CAL-B) or chemical resolution to afford enantiomerically enriched (R)- or (S)-1-(2-furyl)ethanol, which serves as a stereochemically defined synthon.
• Asymmetric synthesis: Enantiopure forms derived from this racemate are employed to introduce defined stereocenters in target natural products and pharmaceutical intermediates.
• Esterification and acylation products: The hydroxyl group undergoes esterification with acids or acyl chlorides to produce furan-containing esters of interest in flavor chemistry and fragrance research, as furan derivatives are associated with food aroma compounds.
• Oxidation to acetyl furan: Controlled oxidation of the secondary alcohol yields 2-acetylfuran, a flavoring agent and useful carbonyl building block, demonstrating the compound's role as a precursor in flavour and fragrance synthesis.
• Cross-coupling and heterocyclic functionalization: The furan ring is amenable to directed lithiation and palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling, enabling elaboration to biaryl and other heteroaromatic scaffolds.

These attributes make (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol relevant to researchers in medicinal chemistry, asymmetric catalysis, natural product synthesis, and the flavour and fragrance industries.

Storage, Handling, and Safety Guidelines

Storage: (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location away from heat sources and ignition sources. Refrigerated storage (2–8 °C) is typically recommended for long-term stability of liquid furan-based alcohols to minimise oxidative degradation and evaporative loss. Store separately from strong oxidising agents and strong acids.

Handling precautions: Work with this compound in a well-ventilated fume hood. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, including chemical-resistant gloves, laboratory coat, and safety eyewear. Avoid inhalation of vapours; furan derivatives may be irritating to the respiratory tract, eyes, and skin. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Disposal: Dispose of waste material in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations for organic solvent/chemical waste. Do not pour down the drain.

Safety data: Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for SKU X170274 available from Aladdin Scientific for comprehensive hazard classification, first-aid measures, and regulatory information before use. Specific GHS classification and hazard statements should be confirmed from the SDS, as these are not confirmed in the current source material.

Quality, Purity, and Ordering Information

Specification and purity: Aladdin Scientific supplies (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol under SKU X170274. Purity specifications and analytical data (including GC purity, NMR, and refractive index where applicable) are documented in the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) accompanying each lot. Researchers are encouraged to request the CoA prior to or upon receipt of the product to confirm lot-specific purity and quality.

Available packaging: Multiple pack sizes may be available to suit research-scale and scale-up requirements. Contact Aladdin Scientific sales or visit the product page for current stock, pricing, and packaging options.

Ordering: Order (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol directly through the Aladdin Scientific online catalogue using SKU X170274. For bulk quantities, custom packaging, or technical enquiries, contact the Aladdin Scientific technical support team.

Related reagents: Researchers working with this compound may also be interested in enantiomerically pure (R)- or (S)-1-(2-furyl)ethanol, 2-acetylfuran, or other furan-derived alcohols and building blocks available in the Aladdin Scientific catalogue.

Frequently asked questions

What is (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol used for in research?

(±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol is primarily used as a chiral building block and synthetic intermediate. It serves as a substrate for enzymatic kinetic resolution to access enantiomerically enriched furan alcohols, and as a precursor to 2-acetylfuran via oxidation. It also finds application in asymmetric synthesis and heterocyclic chemistry.

How should (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol (X170274) be stored?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and strong oxidising agents. Refrigerated storage at 2–8 °C is generally recommended for long-term stability. Always consult the product SDS and CoA for lot-specific storage conditions.

Is (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol the same as enantiopure 1-(2-furyl)ethanol?

No. The (±) designation indicates a racemic mixture containing equal amounts of the (R)- and (S)-enantiomers. Enantiopure (R)- or (S)-1-(2-furyl)ethanol consists of a single enantiomer and is obtained by resolution or asymmetric synthesis. For stereochemically sensitive applications, researchers should use the appropriate enantiopure form.

What safety precautions are required when handling (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol?

Handle in a well-ventilated fume hood wearing chemical-resistant gloves, a lab coat, and safety eyewear. Avoid inhaling vapours, as furan derivatives can be irritating to the respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Consult the full Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for SKU X170274 before use for complete hazard and first-aid information.

How can I verify the purity of (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol from Aladdin Scientific?

Purity is documented in the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) provided with each lot of SKU X170274. The CoA typically includes GC purity, NMR data, and physical constants. You may request the CoA from Aladdin Scientific before purchase or upon receipt of your order.

References

1. Aladdin Scientific product page for (±)-1-(2-Furyl)ethanol, SKU X170274. Aladdin Scientific.
2. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. 4th ed. Wiley-Interscience, 1992. (General reference for secondary alcohol reactions and furan chemistry.)
3. Bornscheuer, U. T.; Kazlauskas, R. J. Hydrolases in Organic Synthesis: Regio- and Stereoselective Biotransformations. Wiley-VCH, 2006. (Reference for enzymatic kinetic resolution of secondary alcohols including furyl ethanols.)

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.