Resins, composites The primary use of furfuryl alcohol is as a
monomer for the synthesis of
furan resins. These polymers are used in
thermoset polymer matrix composites, cements,
adhesives, coatings and casting/foundry
resins. Polymerization involves an acid-catalyzed polycondensation, usually giving a black cross-linked product. A highly simplified representation is shown below. Because of its low molecular weight, furfuryl alcohol can impregnate the cells of wood, where it can be polymerized and bonded with the wood by heat, radiation, and/or catalysts or additional reactants. The treated wood (e.g. "
Kebony") has improved moisture-dimensional stability, hardness, and decay and insect resistance; catalysts can include
zinc chloride,
citric, and
formic acid, as well as borates.
Rocket fuel Furfuryl alcohol has been used in rocketry as a fuel which ignites
hypergolically (immediately and energetically in contact) with
white fuming nitric acid or
red fuming nitric acid oxidizer. The use of hypergolics avoids the need for an
igniter. Mixtures of furfuryl alcohol and
aniline in different proportions were used in American
MGM-5 Corporal ballistic missile and
WAC Corporal and
Aerobee sounding rockets. Mixture of 41% of furfuryl alcohol, 41% of
xylidine and 18% of
methanol, called Furaline, was used in France for experimental rocket engines for aircraft, developed by
SEPR. ==Safety==