UN 2301 — 2-Methylfuran
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 128. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 2301 is 2-Methylfuran, a Class 3 flammable liquid assigned to ERG Guide 128. It is a volatile, low-flash-point liquid that can quickly produce ignitable vapor at normal temperatures.
Hazard overview: UN 2301 presents a major flammable vapor hazard. 2-Methylfuran vapors can form explosive mixtures with air, travel along the ground to ignition sources and flash back to the spill area. Vapors may collect in sewers, basements, trenches or other confined spaces, and heated containers may rupture or explode.
Response guidance: For a UN 2301 incident, responders should confirm the product using shipping papers, container markings, SDS and ERG Guide 128. Establish incident command, isolate the area, stay upwind and uphill, eliminate ignition sources when safe, prevent runoff to sewers, and use appropriate foam, dry chemical or CO2 for fire control under local SOP.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 2301 should emphasize ERG 128, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: 2-Methylfuran is regulated as a hazardous material; verify current requirements from shipping papers, SDS and applicable authorities.
Storage & handling: 2-Methylfuran should be stored according to SDS and local procedures.
UN 2301 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2301
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors may travel to an ignition source and flash back.
- Vapors are heavier than air and may spread along the ground into low or confined areas.
- Vapor explosion hazard exists indoors, outdoors or in sewers.
- Runoff to sewers may create a fire or explosion hazard.
- Containers may rupture or explode when heated.
- 2-Methylfuran may polymerize or react dangerously when heated, contaminated or involved in fire conditions.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
2-Methylfuran is a colorless to pale yellow volatile liquid with an ether-like odor. It has a very low flash point, boils near 63-65°C, and produces vapors heavier than air that can move along the ground.
| Also known as | 2-MethylfuranSylvanalpha-MethylfuranFuran, 2-methyl- |
| CAS Number | 534-22-5 |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid with an ethereal, ether-like odor. Volatile and highly flammable at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -30°C (-22°F) |
| Boiling Point | 63-65°C (145-149°F) |
| Vapor Density | 2.8 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Insoluble in water; no significant reactivity with water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2301
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should use positive-pressure SCBA when vapors, fire gases or confined-space exposure may be present. Chemical-resistant protective clothing, gloves and eye protection should be selected according to ERG 128, SDS, monitoring results, incident command and local SOP.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2301 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Eliminate all ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless properly trained and wearing appropriate protective equipment.
- Avoid breathing vapors and avoid contact with liquid or contaminated surfaces.
- Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained, equipped and authorized by incident command.
- Isolate the 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 fire, vapor cloud or large spill conditions are present.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2301 — 2-MethylfuranUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.