2-Acetylfuran

Chemical properties

2-Acetylfuran is a gold-colored solid with an odor of sweet balsam almond cocoa, caramel coffee. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents, and strong bases. It is combustible. On decomposition, 2-acetylfuran releases carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. It is insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, dipropylene glycol, and ethyl ether. natural products exist in the volatile aroma components of coffee, tomatoes, beer, green tea, raisins and potato chips, etc.

Occurrence

2-Acetylfuran is the most abundant flavour compound in Tamarind, where its aroma, in conjunction with alpha-terpineol, citral and some trace pyrazines, contributes to the flavour.
Reported found as a constituent in coffee aroma; also isolated from beech and oak wood tar oils; an aroma component of yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa); also a volatile flavor component of potato chips. Also reported in tomato paste, roasted beef, grilled pork, beer, rum, red wine and green tea.

The Uses of 2-Acetylfuran

2-Acetylfuran is a widely used reagent in manufacturing pharmaceuticals and aroma compounds.

The Uses of 2-Acetylfuran

2-Acetylfuran is a useful intermediate in the synthesis of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals, and is used in the production of the generic cephalophosphorin antibiotic cefuroxime

Definition

ChEBI: 2-acetylfuran is a furan carrying an acetyl substituent at the 2-position. Used in the production of the antibiotic cefuroxime (CHEBI:3515). It is a member of furans, a methyl ketone and an aromatic ketone.

Preparation

2-Acetylfuran is synthesized from furan and acetyl chloride by a Friedel–Kraft condensation.

Aroma threshold values

Detection: 10 ppm

General Description

2-Furyl methyl ketone is a volatile heterocyclic flavor compound that may be formed in food due to Maillard reaction. It has been reported in roasted sesame seeds, fried beef and sweet corn products.

Health Hazard

Exposures to 2-acetylfuran by ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption cause harmful effects. It causes irritation to the skin, the eyes, coughing, respiratory tract irritation, and respiratory distress. Accidental ingestion causes irritation of the digestive tract. There are no data about chronic exposure and adverse effects.

Solubility in organics

Soluble in Ethyl alcohol, essential oils, perfume and flavor chemicals and in Propylene glycol.

storage

2-Acetylfuran should be kept away from sources of ignition, heat, sparks, flame, and light. It should be kept stored in a tightly sealed container in a dry area/refrigerated (below 4°C/39°F).

Precautions

During handling and use of 2-acetylfuran, occupational workers should use appropriate and proper personal protective equipment and wear a self-contained breathing apparatus. Workers should avoid generating dusty conditions, minimize generation and accumulation of dust, remove all sources of ignition, and use a spark-proof tool. Workers should use 2-acetylfuran only in a chemical fume hood.