Decafluorobutane

Decafluorobutane, also known as perfluorobutane, is a chemical compound with the formula C4F10. It is a perfluorocarbon, meaning that all hydrogen atoms in butane have been replaced by fluorine atoms. This molecule is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is a saturated hydrocarbon where each carbon atom is bonded to fluorine atoms and potentially other carbon atoms. The structure is similar to that of n-butane or isobutane, but with all hydrogen atoms substituted by fluorine.

Decafluorobutane exhibits low reactivity due to the strength of the carbon-fluorine bonds. It is non-flammable and has a high dielectric strength. Its thermal stability is also significant. Due to these properties, it has found applications as a dielectric fluid in electrical equipment and as a refrigerant, particularly in specialized low-temperature applications. It can also be used as a propellant in aerosols and as a solvent in certain industrial processes. Environmental considerations are important, as perfluorocarbons can be potent greenhouse gases with long atmospheric lifetimes, although specific data for decafluorobutane's global warming potential may vary.