2-Methyltetrahydrofuran: Main Properties, Production Processes, and Application in Extraction of Natural Products

2-Methyloxolane as a Bio-Based Solvent for Green Extraction of Aromas from Hops (Humulus lupulus L.)

“…Interestingly, it must also be noted that the extraction kinetic seems faster in the case of 2-methyloxolane, as a 2 h maceration extracted 82% of the total crude yield whereas hexane only extracted 71%. These results could obviously be linked to the higher extraction temperature (extraction under reflux) but some authors also found similar results for extractions, both under reflux [2] and at the same temperature (55 • C) [12]. This information is crucial for industrial process equipment dimensioning, as it directly influences the residence time in the extractor, and thus the productivity.…”

“…In addition to the extraction capability assessment and extracts quality, we evaluated 2-methyloxolane and n-hexane under technical, ecological, and economical aspects. In particular, Table 3 shows that 2-methyloxolane as a green solvent is produced 100% by biochemical transformations of agro-building blocks (i.e., defined molecules obtained from the biomass feedstock) [2]. In contrast hexane is currently obtained 100% from petroleum and is known to be hazardous for the environment and health.…”

“…Conventional solvents, generally used in plant extraction, have the important advantage to present a good selectivity, relatively low boiling point, and low enthalpy of vaporization, which facilitates their removal after extraction and limits energy consumption. In particular, hexane is considered to be the best solvent for the extraction of lipophilic molecules such as lipids, aromas, and colors such as carotenoids [2] and the reason why it is widely used in the extraction industry. However, besides their obvious advantages, these solvents also present negative aspects.…”

Acute embryo toxicity and teratogenicity of three potential biofuels also used as flavor or solvent

“…However, 2-MF and especially 2-MTHF revealed a low toxic potential with nominal LC 50 -values of 405 mg/L and 2980 mg/L, respectively. Due to their volatility and the fact that 2-MTHF and 2-MF are biodegradable (Sicaire et al, 2014). or at least predicted to be readily biodegradable (EPI Suite™) their impact on fish in the environment might be low.…”

2-Methyloxolane (2-MeOx) as Sustainable Lipophilic Solvent to Substitute Hexane for Green Extraction of Natural Products. Properties, Applications, and Perspectives

“…2-methyloxolane (also known as 2-methyltetrahydrofuran or 2-MeTHF), is a clear liquid with an ether smell, produced from crop by-products. It is currently mainly used as solvent for chemical reactions as a green alternative to tetrahydrofuran (THF) [ 24 , 25 ].…”