CF2CF2CF2CF2

CF2CF2CF2CF2, also known as perfluorobutane, is a perfluorocarbon with the chemical formula C4F10. It is a fully fluorinated alkane, meaning all hydrogen atoms in butane have been replaced by fluorine atoms. Perfluorobutane is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is chemically inert and non-flammable, properties common to many perfluorocarbons.

Due to its stability and inertness, perfluorobutane has found applications in various niche areas. It can be used as a dielectric fluid in electrical equipment, providing insulation and cooling. Its non-flammability also makes it a potential candidate for fire suppression agents, although other perfluorocarbons are more commonly used for this purpose. In specialized scientific research, it has been explored as a component in gas mixtures for cryogenics and as a tracer gas due to its detectability and inertness.

Perfluorobutane is produced through electrochemical fluorination of butane or other fluorination processes. Like other perfluorocarbons, it is a greenhouse gas and has a long atmospheric lifetime, contributing to global warming. Therefore, its use is subject to environmental regulations and considerations regarding its persistence in the atmosphere. Despite its environmental impact, its unique chemical and physical properties continue to drive its use in specific industrial and scientific applications where its stability and inertness are paramount.