1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether
[CAS# 406-78-0]

Identification

• Classification: Chemical reagent >> Organic reagent >> Ether
• Name: 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether
• Molecular Formula: C₄H₃F₇O
• Molecular Weight: 200.05
• CAS Registry Number: 406-78-0
• EC Number: 609-858-6
• SMILES: C(C(F)(F)F)OC(C(F)F)(F)F

Properties

• Density: 1.479
• Boiling point: 56 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07 Danger
• Risk Statements: H225-H315-H319-H335-H336
• Safety Statements: P210-P233-P240-P241-P242-P243-P261-P264-P264+P265-P271-P280-P302+P352-P303+P361+P353-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P319-P321-P332+P317-P337+P317-P362+P364-P370+P378-P403+P233-P403+P235-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Flammable liquids	Flam. Liq.	2	H225

Discovery and Applications

1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether is a highly fluorinated ether compound that has garnered attention for its stability, volatility, and unique chemical properties. The structure features two fluorinated alkyl groups, tetrafluoroethyl and trifluoroethyl, linked by an oxygen atom. This combination of fluorine atoms and an ether linkage imparts the compound with characteristics valuable in various industrial and chemical applications.

The discovery of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether is tied to advancements in fluorine chemistry, particularly the quest to develop inert, non-reactive substances for specialized uses. Fluorinated compounds are well-known for their resistance to chemical degradation, as the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest in organic chemistry. This stability makes fluorinated ethers attractive for use in harsh chemical environments, where other materials might break down.

One of the main applications of this compound is in the field of refrigerants and heat transfer fluids. The presence of multiple fluorine atoms in the molecule significantly lowers its boiling point while maintaining thermal stability, making it an ideal candidate for use in refrigeration systems and as a coolant in industrial processes. The compound's non-flammability and low toxicity further enhance its suitability for these applications.

1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether is also used as a solvent in certain organic reactions, particularly those involving fluorinated intermediates. Its inertness and compatibility with a wide range of chemicals make it valuable in synthetic chemistry, especially for reactions that require a stable, non-reactive medium. Additionally, fluorinated ethers are sometimes explored as components in pharmaceutical formulations, though the specific use of this compound in drug delivery systems remains limited.

As research in fluorinated materials continues, the potential for this compound to find applications in new areas, such as the development of advanced materials and sustainable technologies, remains promising. The stability and versatility of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether position it as a valuable tool in industries that require reliable, inert chemical compounds.

References

2007. 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether C4H3F7O + C2H6O Ethanol. Binary Liquid Systems of Nonelectrolytes. Part 1.
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-49315-0_2482

2007. 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl ether C4H3F7O + C4H8O2 Ethyl ethanoate. Binary Liquid Systems of Nonelectrolytes. Part 1.
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-49315-0_2492

1994. Role of P4502E1 in the metabolism of 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoro-1-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-ethane. Xenobiotica; the fate of foreign compounds in biological systems, 24(1).
DOI: 10.3109/00498259409043253