Hexafluoropropylene (HFP)

   CAS No.: 116-15-4
   Synonyms / IUPAC Name: 1-Propene, 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoro-; Hexafluoropropylene (HFP)
   Molecular Formula: C₃F₆
   Molecular Weight: 150.02 g/mol

Physicochemical Properties (Typical)

• Appearance: Colorless, odourless gas
• Melting/Freezing Point: Approximately −153 °C
• Boiling Point: Approximately −28 to −29.4 °C (1 atm)
• Density: Liquefied – around 1.58 g/cm³ at ~−40 °C
• Solubility: Very slightly soluble in water (~82 mg/L at 28 °C)
• State at Ambient: Gaseous under standard conditions
• Stability: Stable under normal conditions; non-combustible gas but behaves as a pressurised liquefied gas

Purity & Quality Standards

• Purity: Typically ≥ 99.0% (for fluoropolymer/chemical intermediate applications)
• Appearance: Clear, colourless, free of particulate contamination
• Analytical Methods: GC, IR spectroscopy, fluorine content verification
• Storage & Handling: Stored as a pressurised liquefied gas in cylinders; container integrity and vapour loss must be strictly managed

Applications / Uses

• Monomer/intermediate in the manufacture of fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers (e.g., copolymers with tetrafluoroethylene)
• Raw material in the production of specialty fluorochemicals, perfluorinated oils, greases and high-performance coating systems
• Utilised in niche applications where high chemical and thermal resistance of fluorinated materials is required

Safety & Handling

• Hazards:
• Gas under pressure — may explode if heated
• May displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation in confined spaces
• Inhalation of high concentrations may cause respiratory irritation or organ damage through prolonged exposure
• Contact with liquefied gas may cause frostbite
• Precautions:
• Use only with equipment rated for pressurised liquefied gases
• Ensure proper ventilation; avoid confined spaces
• Wear protective gloves and eye/face protection when connecting or disconnecting cylinders
• Keep cylinders upright, secure and away from heat, flames or ignition sources
• Reactivity & Incompatibilities:
• Avoid contact with strong oxidisers, alkali metals, and powdered metals
• Gas may react under specific conditions (e.g., high partial oxygen pressures) forming explosive epoxide derivatives
• First Aid:
• Inhalation: Move to fresh air; keep comfortable for breathing; call a physician if symptoms persist
• Skin or Contact with Liquefied Gas: Warm gently; do not rub frostbitten area; seek medical attention
• Eyes: Flush with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and safe to do so; seek medical help

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: Supplied in steel cylinders approved for liquefied gas service with appropriate pressure rating and safety valve
• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool (< 30 °C), well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, ignition sources and incompatible materials. Keep cylinders secured and upright
• Container Closure: Keep valves closed when not in use; ensure protective cap is in place
• Shelf Life: Indefinite under proper storage; periodic inspection of cylinder integrity and valve function recommended