furan

H224: Extremely flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H332: Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H350: May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H373 **: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H224 (100%): Extremely flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H302+H332 (40.3%): Harmful if swallowed or if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H302 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315 (100%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H332 (93.9%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H341 (99.6%): Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H350 (99.6%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H373 (99.2%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H412 (100%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 263 reports by companies from 14 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P321, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P321, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P203, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P304+P340, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P321, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Administration of oxygen may be needed. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms of Furan Exposure: Acute exposure to furan may produce dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia. Irritation and burning of the eyes and skin may occur. Furan vapor is a central nervous system depressant.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to furan may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to furan.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. Rush to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to furan.

3. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. Rush to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

3. Vomiting may be induced with syrup of Ipecac. If elapsed time since ingestion of furan is unknown or suspected to be greater than 30 minutes, do not induce vomiting and proceed to Step

4. Ipecac should not be administered to children under 6 months of age. Warning: Syrup of Ipecac should be administered only if victims are alert, have an active gag-reflex, and show no signs of impending seizure or coma. If ANY uncertainty exists, proceed to Step

4. The following dosages of Ipecac are recommended: children up to 1 year old, 10 mL (1/3 oz); children 1 to 12 years old, 15 mL (1/2 oz); adults, 30 mL (1 oz). Ambulate (walk) the victims and give large quantities of water. If vomiting has not occurred after 15 minutes, Ipecac may be readministered. Continue to ambulate and give water to the victims. If vomiting has not occurred within 15 minutes after second administration of Ipecac, administer activated charcoal.

4. Activated charcoal may be administered if victims are conscious and alert. Use 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) for children, 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) for adults, with 125 to 250 mL (1/2 to 1 cup) of water.

5. Promote excretion by administering a saline cathartic or sorbitol to conscious and alert victims. Children require 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) of cathartic; 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) is recommended for adults.

6. Rush to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

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).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

Move container from fire area if this can be accomplished without risk. Spray cooling water on containers that are exposed to flames until well after fire is out. For massive fires in cargo area, use unmanned hose holder or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible withdraw from area and let fire burn. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety device or any discoloration of tank due to fire. Isolate for 1/2 mile in all directions if a tank car or truck is involved. Water may be ineffective. Small fires: dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or alcohol foam. Large fires: water spray, fog, or alcohol foam. (EPA, 1998)

Use water spray, powder, alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may spread fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Water may be ineffective. Small fires: use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or alcohol foam. Large fires: water spray, fog, or alcohol foam. Move container from fire area if this can be accomplished without risk. Spray cooling water on containers that are exposed to flames until well after fire is out. For massive fires in cargo area, use unmanned hose holder or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety device or any discoloration of tank due to fire. Isolate for 1/2 mile in all directions if a tank car or truck is involved. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Vapors may travel long distances to ignition sources and flashback. Vapors in confined areas may explode when exposed to fire. Containers may explode in fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position ... The only respirators recommended for fire fighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that have full facepieces and are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

· Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 128 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

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)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

· 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.

Remove all ignition sources. Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. Do not handle broken packages without protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. Shut off ignition sources; no flares, smoking, or flames in hazard area. Stop leak if you can do so without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors. Small spills: absorb with sand or other noncombustible absorbent material and place into containers for later disposal. Large spills: dike far ahead of spill for later disposal. The exposure concentration limit of 10 ppm together with the low boiling point of furan requires that adequate ventilation be provided in areas handling this chemical. Establish forced ventilation to keep levels below explosive limit. Contact with liquid must be avoided since this chemical can be absorbed through the skin. Keep furan out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations. Thorough washing with soap and water followed by prolonged rinsing should be done immediately after accidental contact. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Contact your Department of Environmental Protection or your regional office of the federal EPA for specific recommendations.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U124, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

A good candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. Also, a good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /From table/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Furan (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

... Adequate ventilation /must/ be provided in areas handling this chemical. Contact with liq must be avoided since this chemical /furan/ can be absorbed through the skin.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

Personnel Protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.

SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or clean the clothing. The completeness of the cleaning procedures should be considered before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at the end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Furan (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 128 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.

LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Well closed. Cool. Keep in the dark. Store only if stabilized. Separated from strong oxidants and acids. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Before entering confined space where this chemical may be present, check to make sure that an explosive concentration does not exist. Store in an explosion-proof refrigerator. Keep in a tightly closed container under an inert atmosphere and protect from light for long-term storage. A regulated, marked area should be established where this chemical is handled, used, or stored ...

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants, acids. Cool. Well closed. Store only if stabilized ... Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Do NOT use compressed air for filling, discharging, or handling. Use non-sparking handtools.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practical to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Containers for furan should be able to withstand the vapor pressure exerted during storage under variable climatic conditions. Furan should be stored in a cool place where the drums will not be heated.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

0.02 [ppm]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)

NR = Not recommended due to insufficient data

AEGLs Status: Final

0.040 [ppm]

6.8 [ppm]

19 [ppm]

13 ppm [From IDLH Table: Furan] (NIOSH, 2024)

13.0 [ppm]

0.056 mg/m

CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient.

CAUTION: For mixtures containing alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam may be more effective.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam.

· Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· For petroleum crude oil, do not spray water directly into a breached tank car. This can lead to a dangerous boil over.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

· For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL) for furan: Worker exposure by all routes should be minimized to the fullest extent possible.

A harmful contamination of the air can be reached very quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance may be irritating to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Exposure could cause severe lung damage.

The substance may have effects on the liver and kidneys. This may result in impaired functions. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans. May cause genetic damage in humans.

For emergency situations, wear a positive pressure, pressure-demand, full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or pressure- demand supplied air respirator with escape SCBA and a fully-encapsulating, chemical resistant suit. (EPA, 1998)

Where there is potential for exposure to the chemical, use a NIOSH/MSHA approved supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece operated in a positive pressure mode, or with a full face piece hood or helmet in the continuous flow mode; or use a NIOSH/MSHA approved self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode.

Personnel protection: ... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles.

Breakthrough times less (usually significantly less) than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers for natural rubber (nat rub), neoprene (neop), neoprene/natural rubber (neop/nat rub), nitril rubber (nitril), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). No data for butyl rubber (butyl), polyethlene (PE), polyurethane (PU), and viton.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... Gowns ... /should be/ of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Do NOT use compressed air for filling, discharging, or handling. Use non-sparking handtools.

PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS! AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!

Furan appears as a clear colorless liquid with a strong odor. Flash point below 32 °F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air.

Colorless liquid with an ethereal odor; darkens on exposure to light and air; [HSDB]

CLEAR COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. TURNS BROWN ON STANDING.

Colorless liquid, turns brown upon standing; color change is retarded if a small amount of water is added

Ethereal

90 °F at 758 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

32.00 °C. @ 758.00 mm Hg

31.5 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-123 °F (EPA, 1998)

-85.61 °C

-85.6 °C

Less than 32F (EPA, 1998)

-32 °F (-35 °C) (Closed cup)

less than 1 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992)

Soluble in alcohol and ether

Slightly soluble in chloroform; very soluble in ethanol, ether; soluble in acetone, benzene

In water, 1X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C

10 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/l at 25 °C: 10

0.9371 at 66.92 °F (EPA, 1998) - Less dense than water; will float

0.9731 at 19.4 °C/4 °C

Density = 0.9514 g/cu cm at 20 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.94

0.9514 @ 20°C

2.3 (EPA, 1998) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

2.3 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.3

493 mmHg at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

600.0 [mmHg]

600 mm Hg at 25 °C /from experimentally derived coefficients/

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 65.8

750 [mm Hg] @31 °C

log Kow = 1.34

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

Furan is a heat-stable compound although, @ 670 °C in the absence of catalyst, or @ 360 °C in the presence of nickel, it decomposes to form a mixture consisting mainly of carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and hydrocarbons.

0.38 cP at 20 °C

0.38 mPa*s

-500.1 kg cal/mole (at constant volume)

95.5 cal/g at 31.2 °C

Index of refraction: 1.4214 at 20 °C/D

Highly flammable. When uninhibited, this compound forms explosive peroxides on exposure to air. Insoluble in water.

Highly Flammable

Peroxidizable Compound

FURAN is sensitive to heat and may turn brown upon standing. This compound may be light sensitive. When uninhibited, this compound forms explosive peroxides on exposure to air. This chemical may react with oxidizers, acids, peroxides and oxygen. It resinifies on evaporation or when in contact with mineral acids, but it is stable in alkalis. (NTP, 1992).

Violent reaction with acids, oxidizers. Unless stablized with an inhibitor, air exposure forms unstable peroxides.

Contact with acids can initiate a violent exothermic reaction.

B*: Compounds that form peroxides on concentration (distillation/evaporation)

9 ppm after 338 h

Kelly, Clark

Accounts of decomposition upon improper storage and explosion hazards during industrial synthesis. See Bretherick's.

Glikin, M. A. et al., Chem. Abs., 1978, 89, 30115

Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 587

http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/toc11.html

National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Furan is a potent hepatotoxin and hepatocarcinogen in rodents, causing hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas in rats and mice, and high incidences of cholangiocarcinomas in rats at doses ≥ 2 mg/kg bw. A genotoxic mode of action cannot be excluded for furan-induced tumor formation. Furan is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, predominantly CYP2E1, to its major metabolite cis-2-butene-1,4-dial (BDA, maleic dialdehyde), a highly reactive electrophile identified as the key mediator of furan toxicity and carcinogenicity. Furan-mediated effects on glutathione (GSH) levels and cell viability can be suppressed by the CYP inhibitor 1-phenylimidazole and increased by pretreatment of rats with acetone (a CYP2E1-inducing agent), indicating that furan cytotoxicity depends on its metabolic activation. BDA has been shown to react with cellular nucleophiles such as GSH and amino acids and to cause cross-links between thiols and amino groups, giving rise to lactam and pyrrole derivatives. Furan reduced the percentage of DNA in the comet tail in turkey liver fetal hepatocytes. Furan was also shown to induce chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. A statistically significant increase of micronucleated cells was recently reported in the spleen of furan-treated mice. A reduction of percentage of DNA in comet tail in liver cells was observed following treatment of turkey fetuses in ovo. Exposure to furan at doses associated with increased tumor incidences initially causes hepatocellular necrosis, accompanied by inflammation and sustained regenerative proliferation of hepatocytes, which may present key events in furan-induced hepatocellular carcinogenicity. Subcapsular and centrilobular necrosis accompanied by markedly increased liver enzymes is the primary response to furan treatment. The involvement of inflammatory processes in furan toxicity is also reflected by increased expression of cytokines and other inflammation-associated genes, such as IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and components of the complement system, which may, however, also derive from lesions involving the biliary tract. Indeed, increased production of reactive oxygen species in response to furan is suggested by immunohistochemical detection of 8-oxo-dG within nuclei of hepatocytes of centrilobular areas following high-dose exposure and changes in the expression of genes responsive to oxidative stress in rats and/or mice. (A15446)

1 x 10 ^-3 mg/kg-day

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of furan. There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of furan. Overall evaluation: Furan is possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).

Furan: reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans

Volume 63: (1995) Dry Cleaning, Some Chlorinated Solvents and Other Industrial Chemicals

TR-402: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Furan (CASRN 110-00-9) in F344 Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies) (1993 )

03/11/91

Clear Evidence

Under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of furan in male and female F344/N rats based on increased incidences of cholangiocarcinoma and hepatocellular neoplasms of the liver and on increased incidences of mononuclear cell leukemia. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of furan in male and female B6C3F1 mice based on increased incidences of hepatocellular neoplasms of the liver and benign pheochromocytomas of the adrenal gland.

Nonneoplastic liver lesions associated with furan administration in rats and mice included biliary tract fibrosis, hyperplasia, inflammation, and proliferation, as well as hepatocellular cytomegaly, degeneration, hyperplasia, necrosis, and vacuolization. In rats, increased severity of nephropathy with an associated increased incidence of parathyroid hyperplasia was associated with exposure to furan.

2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans. (L135)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Sore throat. Cough. Chest tightness. Shortness of breath. Laboured breathing.

Redness.

Redness. Pain.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

IARC Carcinogen - Class 3: Chemicals are not classifiable by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

NTP Carcinogen - Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

IRIS Current

HEAST Current

LC50 (rat) = 3,398 ppm/1H

LD50 Rat ip 5200 ug/kg /SRP: 5.2 mg/kg/

LC50 Rat inhalation 3398 ppm/1 hr

LD50 Mouse ip 7 mg/kg

LC50 Mouse inhalation 120 mg/cu m/1 hr

Groups of 10 Swiss albino mice (GP strain) given furan (purity not given) at a single dose of 300 mg/kg body weight in 0.9% sodium chloride intraperitoneally had centrilobular hepatic necrosis and coagulative necrosis of the proximal convoluted tubules of the outer renal cortex. Treatment of mice with the cytochrome p450 inhibitor piperonyl butoxide reduced the extent of liver necrosis and totally inhibited the renal necrosis.

Diethyldithiocarbamate and carbon disulfide prevented mice from renal injury induced by furan as evidenced by suppression of elevations in plasma urea nitrogen concn and kidney calcium content and by morphological alterations. In carbon tetrachloride-poisoned mice, furan nephrotoxicity was augmented. The augmented furan nephrotoxicity was also prevented by diethyldithiocarbamate or carbon disulfide. Thus, furan may exert nephrotoxicity through active metabolites formed in the kidney. Diethyldithiocarbamate and carbon disulfide also protected against hepatotoxicity induced by furan. As an extension of these studies, similar experiments were undertaken with furan, bromobenzene and cephaloridine, and other nephrotoxic agents that are also thought to require metabolic activation. Diethyldithiocarbamate or carbon disulfide prevented mice from suffering renal injury induced by furan and bromobenzene, as evidenced by suppression of elevations in plasma urea nitrogen concentration and kidney calcium content and of morphologic alterations. Cephaloridine nephrotoxicity, however, was not prevented. In carbon tetrachloride-poisoned mice, furan nephrotoxicity was augmented, whereas bromobenzene and cephaloridine nephrotoxicity was suppressed. The augumented furan nephrotoxicity was also prevented by diethyldithiocarbamate or carbon disulfide. These observations suggest that furan, like chloroform and 1,1-dichloroethylene, may exert nephrotoxicity through active metabolites formed in the kidney. For bromobenzene and cephaloridine nephrotoxicity, a renal bioactivation mechanism is suspected. Diethyldithiocarbamate and carbon disulfide also protected against hepatotoxicity induced by furan and thiophene.

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Aliphatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . Treat frostbite with rapid rewarming techniques ... ./Aliphatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously.Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aliphatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Whenever medical surveillance is indicated, in particular when exposure to a carcinogen has occurred, ad hoc decisions should be taken concerning ... /cytogenetic and/or other/ tests that might become useful or mandatory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Short Term Exposure: Contact can irritate and burn the skin and eyes. Vapors can irritate the respiratory tract and are a central nervous system depressant. Higher exposures can cause pulmonary edema, a medical emergency that can be delayed for several hours. This can cause death. Exposure can cause headache, dizziness, shortness of breath; unconsciousness and suffocation are among the symptoms. The vapors are /CNS depressants/. Acute exposure to furan by inhalation may involve both reversible and irreversible changes. Acute exposure by ingestion or skin absorption, as well as chronic exposure, are associated with high toxicity. Long Term Exposure: Furan may be a carcinogen since it has been shown to cause cancer of the liver and white blood cells in animals. May cause skin allergy. May damage the liver and kidneys.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Gastrointestinal congestion, liver damage, low blood pressure, fatigue, and headache are potential adverse effects following overexposure to furan.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Vapors are anesthetic. Can be absorbed through the skin.

/SURVEILLANCE/ A total of 39 molders and coremakers exposed to furan resin sand and 27 unexposed local controls were examined by lung-function tests before and after a work shift. In all, 28 of the subjects exposed to furan resin sand and the control group were evaluated by dynamic spirometry and nitrogen washout. The remaining 11 subjects exposed to furan resin sand were studied using both static and dynamic spirometry and the CO single-breath technique. The time-weighted average exposure to furfuryl alcohol was about 7 mg/cu m, with peak values exceeding the present Swedish short-term exposure limit (40 mg/cu m). The exposure to respirable dust and formaldehyde as time-weighted over the shift was <2 mg/cu m and 0.4 mg/cu m, respectively, in all groups. During the work shift studied, the 28 exposed subjects had more complaints of airway symptoms than did the controls, showing an average decrease of 0.21 in forced vital capacity but no fall in any other lung-function variable. The remaining 11 exposed subjects demonstrated a post-shift decrease in total lung capacity. The results indicate an acute restrictiveness induced by exposure to furan resin sand, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. Chronic impairment of lung function was not observed.

EC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow, age 29-31 days, length 18 mm, weight 0.100 g); Conditions: freshwater, flow through, 23.2 (22.0-24.6) °C, pH 8.00, hardness 44.5 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 41.5 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 80.0% (65.5-87.4%); Concentration: 99000 ug/L for 24 hr; Effect: behavior change, equilibrium /> or = 99% pure/

EC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow, age 29-31 days, length 18 mm, weight 0.100 g); Conditions: freshwater, flow through, 23.2 (22.0-24.6) °C, pH 8.00, hardness 44.5 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 41.5 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 80.0% (65.5-87.4%); Concentration: 71000 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: behavior change, equilibrium /> or = 99% pure/

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow, age 29-31 days, length 18 mm, weight 0.100 g); Conditions: freshwater, flow through, 23.2 (22.0-24.6) °C, pH 8.00, hardness 44.5 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 41.5 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 80.0% (65.5-87.4%); Concentration: 99000 ug/L for 24 hr /> or = 99% pure/

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow, age 29-31 days, length 18 mm, weight 0.100 g); Conditions: freshwater, flow through, 23.2 (22.0-24.6) °C, pH 8.00, hardness 44.5 mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 41.5 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 80.0% (65.5-87.4%); Concentration: 71000 ug/L for 48 hr /> or = 99% pure/

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow, 29-31 days); Conditions: flow-through bioassay, 23.2 °C, pH 8.00, water hardness 44.5 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: 61 mg/L for 96 hr

7.80e+01

1.20e+03

1.90e+01

4.00e+03

7.30e-03

1.00e-03

Volatile

6.22e+03

2.30e+02

3.50e+03

5.80e+01

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Furan's production and use in organic synthesis of specialty chemicals may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Furan is released to air as a gas phase component of cigarette smoke, wood smoke and exhaust gas from diesel and gasoline engines. Furan also occurs in oils obtained by the distillation of pine wood containing rosin. Furan has been identified in volatile emissions from sorb trees. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 600 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates furan will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase furan will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals, ozone and nitrate radicals; the half-lives for these reactions are 9-10 hours, 4.5-4.6 days and 50 minutes, respectively. If released to soil, furan is expected to have high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 80. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.4X10-3 atm-cu m/mole. Furan may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 4% of the theoretical BOD was reached in 8 weeks indicating that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process. If released into water, furan is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.5 hours and 3.3 days, respectively. BCFs of 0.9-1.5 and <3.2-13 measured in fish at furan concentrations of 1 and 0.1 mg/L, respectively, suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since furan lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to furan may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where furan is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to furan via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water, and dermal contact with this compound or other products containing furan. (SRC)

Furan has been identified in volatile emissions from the European Sorb tree /Sorbus domestica/(1).

Hazardous gases from fires were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Furan's production and use in organic synthesis of specialty chemicals(1,2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 80(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that furan is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of furan from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 5.4X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 600 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 10,000 mg/L(4). Furan is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). A 4% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(5) suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 80(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that furan is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.4X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 600 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 10,000 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.5 hours and 3.3 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), BCFs of 0.9-1.5 and <3.2-13 measured in carp (Cyprinus carpio) at furan concentrations of 1 and 0.1 mg/L(7), respectively, suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 4% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(7) suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), furan, which has a vapor pressure of 600 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase furan is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 9 to 10 hours, calculated from its rate constants of 3.83X10-11 to 4.23X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec(3-5). Furan will also react with nitrate radicals and ozone radicals in the atmosphere with half-lives of 50 minutes and 4.5 to 4.6 days, calculated from rate constants of 1.4X10-12 cu cm/molecule sec(4) and 2.4X10-18(4) to 2.5X10-18(6), respectively.

AEROBIC: Furan, present at 100 mg/L, reached 4% of its theoretical BOD in 8 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1). Adaptation (time to reach 5% reduction) and degradation (total time to reach <1 ug/L) times for aerobic degradation of furan (initial concentrations 150-250 ug/L and 50 times dilution) in a mixture of aromatic hydrocarbons and nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen containing compounds were 390 and 160 hours, and 530 and 340 hours, for the two concentrations, respectively(2).

ANAEROBIC: In an anoxic aquifer slurry, furan did not mineralize and no transformation products were detected by HPLC. After 16 months incubation time, 80% of the initial furan remained(1). The theoretical gas production from anaerobic biodegradation of furan in diluted primary digesting sludge was - 22% with a lag period of > 70 days(2). The disappearance of furan in sulfate-reducing and methanogenic aquifer slurries after 1, 3, and 8 months are 11, 0, 0 and 102, 58, and <3%, resepctively(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of furan with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 3.83X10-11 to 4.23X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec(1-3). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 9 to 10 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). A rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of furan with nitrate radicals was measured as 1.4X10-12 cu cm/molecule sec(2). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 50 minutes at an atmospheric concentration of 2.4X10+8 nitrate radicals per cu cm(2). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of furan with ozone has been measured as 2.4X10-18(2) and 2.5X10-18(4) cu cm/molecule-sec. This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 4.5-4.6 days at an atmospheric concentration of 7.2X10+11 ozone molecules per cu cm(2). The half-life for the reaction of furan with singlet oxygen in water has been estimated to be 1 hour based on a measured reaction rate constant of 1.4X10+8 L/mole-sec and assuming an ambient singlet oxygen concentration of 1X10-12 mole/L(5). Furan is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(6).

The half-life for the reaction of furan with photochemically generated hydroxyl radicals at 22 °C has been calculated to be 6.0 and 2.3 hours, using experimentally derived rate constants of 4.0X10-11 and 1.05X10-10 mg/cu m/molecule-sec, respectively, and an average atmospheric hydroxyl radical concentration of 8.0X10-5 molecules/mg/cu m. The half-life for furan reaction with ozone in the atmosphere was estimated to be 3.3 days, using an experimentally derived reaction rate constant of 2.4X10-18 mg/cu m/molecule-sec at room temperature and an average ambient ozone concentration of 1X10-12 molecules/mg/cu m.

BCFs of 0.9-1.5 and <3.2-13 were measured in carp (Cyprinus carpio) at furan concentrations of 1 and 0.1 mg/L, respectively(1). According to a classification scheme(2), these BCFs suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of furan can be estimated to be 80(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that furan is expected to have high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for furan is estimated as 5.4X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 600 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 10,000 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that furan is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 2.5 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 3.3 days(SRC). Furan's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). The potential for volatilization of furan from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

SURFACE WATER: Furan has been qualitatively identified in the Niagara River and 2 creeks in the Niagara River watershed(1,2).

Furan was detected in 1 of 63 industrial effluents at a concentration of <10 ug/L(1). Furan was detected in aqueous condensate samples from low-Btu gasification of rosebud coal at a concentration of 7+/-4 ppb(2). Furan was not detected (detection limit 0.1 ppb) in groundwater or coal water prior to in situ coal gasification, product water samples obtained during in situ coal gasification, retort water from in situ oil shale processing or boiler blowdown water from in situ oil shale processing(2). Furan was released as fireplace emissions at 133 and 214 mg/kg of fuel burnt for soft and hard wood, respectively(3). Furan was found in emissions from a wood stove using hardwood at 208 mg/kg and using synthetic fuel at 2.3 mg/kg(3).

Furan was identified in the headspace above household waste in one out of 4 biodegradable (kitchen/biological) waste samples at <0.01 mg/cu m(1). Furan was detected, not quantified, in the emissions of kitchen waste(2), stored food exudate(2) and in waste head space in laboratory experiments(3). Furan occurs in oils obtained by the distillation of pine wood containing rosin(4).

Furan is released to air as a gas phase component of wood smoke(1) and exhaust gas from diesel and gasoline engines(2).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: Furan has been detected at trace levels in the ambient air of the Kanawha Valley, WV at South Charleston (two different dates) and at St. Albans(1).

Furan has been identified as a volatile component of roasted filberts(1). Furan has been identified in the volatile component of mutton, chicken, and beef(2). Furan was detected in infant formula with iron at 8.5-8.6 ng/g (brand 1) and 16.8-18.8 ng/g (brand 2), ready to eat infant formula at not detected to 2.5 ng/g, sweet potato baby food at 91.0-93.1 ng/g (brand 1), 75.7-81.1 ng/g (brand 2), and 73.8-82.9 ng/g (brand 3), spaghetti sauce at 5.9-6.1 ng/g (brand 1), 3.1-3.5 ng/g (brand 2), baked beans at 117-122 ng/g, canned luncheon meat loaf at 1.8-1.9 ng/g, pork and beans at 78.7-85.6 ng/g, chicken broth at 8.2-9.1 ng/g (brand 1) and 15.2-18.2 ng/g (brand 2), peanut butter at 6.1-7.1 ng/g, cut green beans at 5.9-8.2 ng/g, chicken dinner baby food at 29.4-39.7 ng/g, chicken and stars baby food at 15.9-23.6 ng/g, apple juice at 1.2-2.2 ng/g(3).

Furan is identified in volatile emissions from arboreous plants (Genus: Sorbus)(1). It has been detected not quantified in essential oil derived from Pelargonium graveolens, rose geranium(2).

ENVIRONMENTAL: Furan has been qualitatively identified in mother's milk from Baton Rouge(1).

Furan occurs in oils obtained by the distillation of pine wood containing rosin(1). Furan is released to air as a gas phase component of cigarette smoke(2).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U124, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

A good candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. Also, a good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /From table/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Furan (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. Substances may be transported hot.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Health: Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Furan (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2389; Furan[United Nations; Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Model Regulations. Vol. I, 16th Revised Edition (2009). Available from, as of November 22, 2010: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev16/16files_e.html]

Hazard Class or Division: 3.0; Furan[United Nations; Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Model Regulations. Vol. I, 16th Revised Edition (2009). Available from, as of November 22, 2010: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev16/16files_e.html]

49 091 75; Furan

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Procurement ... of unduly large amt ... should be avoided. To avoid spilling, carcinogens should be transported in securely sealed glass bottles or ampoules, which should themselves be placed inside strong screw-cap or snap-top container that will not open when dropped & will resist attack from the carcinogen. Both bottle & the outside container should be appropriately labelled. ... National post offices, railway companies, road haulage companies & airlines have regulations governing transport of hazardous materials. These authorities should be consulted before ... material is shipped. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When no regulations exist, the following procedure must be adopted. The carcinogen should be enclosed in a securely sealed, watertight container (primary container), which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof container that will withstand chem attack from the carcinogen (secondary container). The space between primary & secondary container should be filled with absorbent material, which would withstand chem attack from the carcinogen & is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of the primary container in the event of breakage or leakage. Each secondary container should then be enclosed in a strong outer box. The space between the secondary container & the outer box should be filled with an appropriate quantity of shock-absorbent material. Sender should use fastest & most secure form of transport & notify recipient of its departure. If parcel is not received when expected, carrier should be informed so that immediate effort can be made to find it. Traffic schedules should be consulted to avoid ... arrival on weekend or holiday ... /Chemical Carcinogens/

Flammable Liquid

Airtight.

Symbol: F+, T; R: 45-12-19-20/22-38-48/22-68-52/53; S: 53-45-61; Note: E

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: I