C8F18

C8F18 is the chemical formula for a group of organic compounds known as perfluorooctanes. These are saturated hydrocarbons where all hydrogen atoms have been replaced by fluorine atoms. Specifically, C8F18 represents isomers of perfluorooctane, meaning they have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements of the carbon and fluorine atoms. The most common and well-known isomer is n-perfluorooctane, which has a linear chain of eight carbon atoms fully substituted with fluorine. Other isomers can have branched carbon chains.

Perfluorooctanes are characterized by their extreme chemical inertness and thermal stability. The strong carbon-fluorine bonds are highly resistant to oxidation and degradation. They are also hydrophobic and oleophobic, meaning they repel both water and oils. This makes them useful in applications requiring non-reactive and non-stick surfaces. Historically, perfluorooctane-based substances have been used in firefighting foams, stain repellents for textiles and carpets, and as solvents in specific industrial processes. Due to their persistence in the environment and potential for bioaccumulation, the production and use of many perfluorooctane-related compounds have been phased out or restricted in many regions.