ClF5

Chlorine pentafluoride (ClF5) is an interhalogen compound formed from chlorine and fluorine. It is a highly reactive, volatile fluorinating and oxidizing agent that is primarily of interest to researchers and in specialized production settings. In the liquid state at ambient conditions, ClF5 is a reactive, corrosive substance that readily engages with many materials.

Structure and bonding: The chlorine atom is bonded to five fluorine atoms, giving ClF5 a square-pyramidal arrangement in the molecule with one lone pair on chlorine. This electronic arrangement contributes to its pronounced reactivity and tendency to interact strongly with nucleophiles and oxidizable substrates.

Preparation: ClF5 is produced under controlled, moisture-free conditions in specialized facilities. It is typically formed by fluorination steps involving chlorine fluoride species and fluorine gas, performed in equipment designed to withstand aggressive fluorinating agents. The synthesis and handling require rigorous safety measures.

Reactivity and hazards: ClF5 is among the strongest fluorinating and oxidizing agents known. It reacts violently with water and with many organic materials, and it can corrode or ignite materials not resistant to fluorinating oxidizers. Hydrolysis and contact with moisture release corrosive products such as hydrogen fluoride and chlorine-containing oxyfluorides. Because of its extreme reactivity, it is handled only in carefully controlled environments.

Applications and handling: In specialized chemistry, ClF5 is used as a fluorinating agent to introduce fluorine into substrates and to prepare fluoride-containing compounds. Its use is limited to well-equipped laboratories and facilities with appropriate containment, storage, and waste disposal protocols.