Furfurylamine

Furfurylamine is an organic compound that is used in a variety of industrial applications. It is a colorless liquid, although commercial samples can appear yellow. It has a strong, unpleasant odor similar to that of ammonia.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Furfurylamine is a derivative of furan, a heterocyclic compound. It consists of a five-membered ring with four carbon atoms and one oxygen atom. The furfurylamine molecule has an amine group (-NH2) attached to one of the carbon atoms in the furan ring.

The molecular formula of furfurylamine is C5H7NO. It has a molecular weight of 97.12 g/mol. The compound is soluble in water and most organic solvents. It is a weak base, with a pKa value of 9.41.

Production

Furfurylamine is produced industrially by the reaction of furfural with ammonia. Furfural is derived from agricultural byproducts such as corn cobs and sugar cane bagasse. The reaction is carried out at high temperatures and pressures in the presence of a catalyst.

Applications

Furfurylamine is used as a building block in the synthesis of a wide range of chemical products. These include pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and polymers. It is also used as a corrosion inhibitor in oil wells and as a solvent in the electronics industry.

Health Effects

Exposure to furfurylamine can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. It may also cause nausea, headache, and dizziness. Long-term exposure can lead to liver and kidney damage.

Safety and Handling

Furfurylamine should be handled with care. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition. Protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection should be worn when handling the compound.

See Also

• Furan
• Furfural
• Amine