Synthetic resins and their raw materials / A survey of the types and uses of synthetic resins, the organization of the industry, and the trade in resins and raw materials, with particular references to factors essential to tariff consideration. Under the general provisions of section 332, title III, part II, Tariff act of 1930.

by United States Tariff Commission

FURFURAL

Furfural is an aldehyde found in oat hulls, rice hulls, corn cobs, bran, and other farm waste products. Commercially it is obtained in the United States from oat hulls and in the Soviet Union from the husks of sunflower seeds. It is a colorless liquid, boiling at 158° to 162° C. and freezing at minus 38° C. Its principal use is in synthetic resins, of which tar acid-furfural is probably the most important. These resins are used in molding, for impregnating, and in coatings. Furfural is also used as a solvent for cellulose ethers and esters, natural gums and resins, and in the manufacture of derivatives useful as rubber chemicals.

Domestic production is entirely by one firm, located in Iowa. Production and sales statistics are not publishable, but the maker has stated that consumption is in “terms of millions of pounds per year.”