Fluorinecontaining

Fluorine-containing compounds are chemical substances that include fluorine atoms in their structure. Fluorine’s high electronegativity and the strength of carbon–fluorine bonds give many of these compounds distinctive properties, including high chemical and thermal stability, and varied solubility and reactivity depending on substitution. They can be inorganic or organic.

Inorganic examples include fluoride salts such as sodium fluoride and potassium fluoride, and gaseous fluorides such as sulfur hexafluoride. Organic fluorinated compounds cover a broad range: fluoroalkanes, fluoroalkenes, fluorinated aromatics, and perfluorinated or polyfluorinated polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Many organofluorines contain the trifluoromethyl group (–CF3).

Many fluorine-containing substances have important commercial uses. Fluorinated polymers provide nonstick surfaces and chemical resistance; fluorinated refrigerants and solvents have played roles in cooling and manufacturing; fluorinated drugs and agrochemicals often show altered potency, metabolism, or bioavailability; fluorinated ions and compounds are used in batteries and catalysts.

Environmental and health considerations include persistence and potential bioaccumulation of some fluorinated substances, particularly PFAS. Regulatory frameworks in many regions seek to restrict or replace certain fluorinated products and to manage emissions and disposal. Research continues on safer alternatives and on understanding exposure and effects.