2(5H)-Furanone
2(5H)-Furanone (CAS 497-23-4), with the molecular formula C4H4O2 and a molecular weight of 84.07, is a versatile heterocyclic building block. Also known as γ-Crotonolactone, this compound is primarily utilized in chemical synthesis. Its applications span the creation of complex organic molecules, including pharmaceutical intermediates and natural product analogs, making it a valuable reagent for research and development in organic chemistry.
- IUPAC
- γ-Crotonolactone,2-Buten-1,4-olide
- Synonyms
- γ-Crotonolactone2-Buten-1,4-olide

Synthesis of Pharmaceutical Intermediates
2(5H)-Furanone has been employed in the synthesis of key intermediates for biologically active compounds, such as (+)-L-733,060 and (+)-CP-99,994.
Organic Synthesis Reagent
It serves as a substrate in various reactions, including Michael additions and aldol reactions, facilitating the construction of complex molecular architectures like lignans.
Catalyst Development Studies
The compound has been used in studies exploring new organocatalysts for reactions such as the synthesis of 5-substituted 2(5H) furanones via direct aldol reactions with aromatic aldehydes.
Heterocyclic Chemistry
As a furan derivative, it is a useful building block in heterocyclic chemistry for the synthesis of novel furan-containing compounds.
| Molecular weight | 84.07 |
|---|---|
| Empirical formula | C4H4O2 |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 86-87 °C/12 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.185 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.469(lit.) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Melting point | 4-5 °C(lit.) |
| Application | 2(5H)-Furanone (γ-Crotonolactone) has been used in: • synthesis of (+)-L-733,060, (+)-CP-99,994 and (2S,3R)-3-hydroxypipecolic acid1• synthesis of 5-substituted 2(5H) furanones (γ-butenolides) via direct aldol reaction with aromatic aldehydes catalyzed by bifunctional aminothiourea and aminosquaramide organocatalysts2• Michael addition reactions3 for synthesis of lignans4 • three-component Michael-Aldol reactions with an aldehyde anda thiolate5 or carbanion6 |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 101 °C / 213.8 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is 2(5H)-Furanone used for?
+
2(5H)-Furanone (CAS 497-23-4) is primarily used as a building block in organic synthesis for creating complex molecules, including pharmaceutical intermediates and lignans. It participates in reactions like Michael additions and aldol reactions.
What are the CAS number and formula for 2(5H)-Furanone?
+
The CAS number for 2(5H)-Furanone is 497-23-4, and its empirical formula is C4H4O2.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies 2(5H)-Furanone with an assay of 98%. This product is intended for research and chemical synthesis purposes and is not supplied as USP, BP, EP, or pharmaceutical grade.
How should 2(5H)-Furanone be handled safely?
+
2(5H)-Furanone is a Warning substance (GHS07) that causes skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Always wear safety eyeshields and appropriate gloves, and ensure good ventilation. Use a suitable respirator.
How is 2(5H)-Furanone packed and shipped?
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2(5H)-Furanone is typically stored at 2-8°C. Tech Serve Solutions can export this chemical globally. Please contact us for specific packaging and shipping inquiries.
How can I request a sample or quote for 2(5H)-Furanone?
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To request a sample or a quote for 2(5H)-Furanone, please use the contact form on our website or call our sales department directly.
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