Furan-2-ylmethanethiol

Furan-2-ylmethanethiol is an organosulfur compound. It is classified as a furan substituted with a methylthiol group. It is a colourless liquid, but impure samples can appear yellow. It possesses a strong odour of roasted coffee and a bitter taste. It is a key component of the aroma of roasted coffee. It has been identified as a trigger molecule for parosmia following COVID-19 infection.

Synthesis

Furan-2-ylmethanethiol is prepared by treating furfuryl alcohol with thiourea in hydrochloric acid via an intermediate isothiouronium salt, which is hydrolized to the thiol by heating with sodium hydroxide.
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