BrF5

Bromine pentafluoride (BrF5) is a highly reactive interhalogen compound. It consists of bromine in the +5 oxidation state bonded to five fluorine atoms, giving a square pyramidal molecular geometry with a lone pair on bromine.

Physically, BrF5 is a colorless to pale yellow volatile liquid at room temperature that fumes in air. It is a powerful fluorinating agent and oxidizer, reacting vigorously with moisture and many organic compounds. Contact with water or alcohols produces corrosive hydrogen fluoride and various bromine oxyfluorides; the reaction is highly exothermic.

Preparation of BrF5 is typically accomplished by fluorinating bromine difluoride or bromine trifluoride with fluorine gas under controlled conditions, for example BrF3 + F2 -> BrF5, often at low temperature. It can also be generated in situ in fluorination processes and purified by distillation under inert atmosphere.

In chemical use, BrF5 serves as a source of fluorine for the synthesis of higher fluorides and as a potent fluorinating and oxidizing agent in inorganic and organofluorine chemistry. It can convert oxides and sulfides to higher fluorides and is employed in specialty fluorination applications. Because of its moisture sensitivity, BrF5 is handled under strictly anhydrous conditions with appropriate containment and compatible materials.

Safety and handling are critical: BrF5 is highly toxic and corrosive. It reacts violently with water and many organic substrates, releasing toxic hydrogen fluoride. It should be stored in a moisture-free environment, in compatible containers, and handled with appropriate protective equipment in a fume hood.