Trifluoropropene
[CAS# 677-21-4]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organic fluorine compound
• Name: Trifluoropropene
• Synonyms: 3,3,3-Trifluoropropene
• Molecular Formula: C₃H₃F₃
• Molecular Weight: 96.05
• CAS Registry Number: 677-21-4
• EC Number: 211-637-0
• SMILES: C=CC(F)(F)F

Properties

• Density: 1.1±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 0.94 g/mL (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.288, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: -17.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*, -18 - -16 °C (Expl.)
• Flash Point: -91.5±6.4 °C, Calc.^*

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS04;GHS07;GHS08 Warning
• Risk Statements: H220-H280-H336-H373
• Safety Statements: P210-P260-P304+P340-P314-P377-P410+P403

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Gases under pressure (compressed)	Press. Gas (Comp.)		H280
Flammable gases	Flam. Gas	1	H220
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H336
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Gases under pressure (liquid)	Press. Gas (Liq.)		H280
Flammable gases	Flam. Gas	2	H221

• Transport Information: UN 1954

Discovery and Applications

Trifluoropropene, with the chemical formula C₃H₃F₃C=C, is a fluorinated organic compound. It is a type of hydrofluoroolefin (HFO), a category of compounds that have gained significant attention due to their potential to replace ozone-depleting and high global warming potential (GWP) chemicals in various industrial applications. Trifluoropropene is a colorless, flammable gas with a slightly sweet odor and is primarily used as a refrigerant and chemical intermediate.

Trifluoropropene was first synthesized and investigated in the late 20th century as part of the ongoing search for environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional refrigerants, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), which have been found to contribute to ozone depletion and global warming. The development of HFOs, including trifluoropropene, was aimed at providing solutions that have minimal environmental impact, particularly in terms of their low GWP and zero ozone depletion potential. The compound was first introduced as an alternative to high-GWP refrigerants used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Trifluoropropene is primarily used in refrigeration and air conditioning systems, where it serves as a refrigerant with a significantly lower GWP compared to older alternatives like HFC-134a. The compound is particularly valued for its low toxicity, low flammability, and excellent thermodynamic properties, which make it an effective replacement in various applications. One of the key advantages of trifluoropropene is its low GWP of less than 1, which makes it a strong candidate for use in systems designed to comply with the environmental regulations set forth by the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. This global agreement, which aims to phase out high-GWP chemicals, has contributed to the growing use of trifluoropropene as a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional refrigerants.

Another important application of trifluoropropene is in the manufacture of fluorinated materials. The compound serves as an intermediate in the production of fluoropolymers, which are used in coatings, films, electrical insulation materials, and other products that require resistance to chemicals, heat, and electrical conductivity. These fluoropolymers find applications in various industries, including electronics, automotive, and aerospace, where their durability and resistance to harsh conditions are essential.

In addition to its role as a refrigerant and chemical intermediate, trifluoropropene is also used as a propellant in aerosol formulations. The compound's thermodynamic properties make it suitable for use as a propellant in spray products, where it helps deliver active ingredients efficiently. It is also employed as a blowing agent in the production of foam materials, contributing to the production of lightweight, durable foams used in packaging, insulation, and construction applications.

Due to its fluorine content, trifluoropropene also has some flame-retardant properties. As a result, it has found applications in materials that require enhanced fire resistance, such as textiles, electronics, and construction materials. In these cases, the compound is often incorporated into the material to improve its ability to withstand high temperatures and reduce the risk of ignition.

Trifluoropropene's low environmental impact, including its negligible effect on ozone depletion and its low GWP, has made it an attractive option for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. As a result, its use in refrigeration and other applications has steadily increased, particularly in light of international environmental regulations. The shift toward more sustainable refrigerants and chemicals is expected to continue, with trifluoropropene playing an important role in the development of more eco-friendly alternatives.

Despite its many advantages, trifluoropropene must be handled with care, as it can decompose into hazardous byproducts when exposed to high temperatures or open flames. Proper safety measures, including the use of protective equipment and adequate ventilation, are essential when working with this compound in industrial settings.

In conclusion, trifluoropropene is a versatile and environmentally friendly compound that has become increasingly important in the fields of refrigeration, chemical synthesis, and materials manufacturing. Its low GWP, zero ozone depletion potential, and wide range of industrial applications make it a crucial component in the transition to more sustainable chemical alternatives. Its continued use is expected to grow as industries adopt more eco-conscious practices in compliance with environmental regulations.

References

2024. Energy performance assessment of R1243zf/R134a, R1243zf/RE170, and R1243zf/R227ea as possible alternatives to R410A refrigerant in precision air conditioning unit. Journal of the Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering, 46(7).
DOI: 10.1007/s40430-024-04971-2

2024. Speed of Sound Measurements and Correlation of {x 3,3,3-Trifluoropropene (HFO-1243zf) + (1-x)2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf)} with x = (0.2856, 0.5054, 0.8418) at Temperatures from 243.15 K to 348.15 K and Pressures up to 90 MPa. International Journal of Thermophysics, 45(4).
DOI: 10.1007/s10765-023-03321-z

2023. Isothermal (Vapour + Liquid) Equilibrium Measurements and Correlation of the Binary Mixture {3,3,3-Trifluoropropene (HFO-1243zf) + 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf)} at Temperatures from 283.15 K to 323.15 K. International Journal of Thermophysics, 44(6).
DOI: 10.1007/s10765-023-03192-4