Fluoriidien

Fluoriidien, in Dutch typically referred to as fluoriden, are chemical compounds in which fluorine is present as the fluoride ion (F−) or as part of a fluoride moiety. The term covers inorganic fluorides such as sodium fluoride (NaF), calcium fluoride (CaF2) and aluminum fluoride (AlF3), as well as organofluorine compounds where fluorine is bound to carbon or other elements. Fluorides occur naturally in minerals such as fluorite (CaF2), cryolite (Na3AlF6) and fluorapatite, and can be produced synthetically for industrial uses.

Chemically, fluorides span a wide range. Many inorganic fluorides form ionic solids with high lattice energies. The fluoride ion is small with high charge density, which affects solubility, reactivity and thermal stability. Some fluorides are highly soluble (e.g., NaF), others are sparingly soluble (e.g., CaF2). Organofluorine compounds show a broad spectrum of reactivity and are common in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and polymers. Fluoride-containing materials are used in dentistry (fluoridated toothpaste and water fluoridation), metallurgy (aluminium production using cryolite), and uranium milling and enrichment (UF6); fluorides are also employed as etchants and in optics and ceramics.

Safety and regulation: Fluorides can be toxic at high exposures. Hydrogen fluoride (HF) is highly corrosive and can cause severe chemical burns, while airborne fluoride compounds can be hazardous to health. Regulations govern occupational exposure, water fluoridation levels and consumer products containing fluoride, balancing benefits in dental health with potential risks. Environmental concerns focus on fluoride emissions from industrial processes and accumulation in groundwater or soils.