Fluorokelaatuihin

Fluorokelaatuihin is a synthetic organofluorine compound first isolated in 1978 during a study of fluorinated polymers by the Institute of Finnish Chemistry. The molecule consists of a fluorinated hydrocarbon backbone linked to a kela-derived moiety, a natural polymer obtained from the bark of the Finnish *Ficus sidae* species. Fluorokelaatuihin is a liquid at room temperature with a distinctive blue-green hue. Its fluorine atoms confer exceptional chemical stability and resistance to bio-degradative enzymes.

In the 1980s industrial development focused on incorporating fluorokelaatuihin into surface coatings, where its low surface energy reduces adhesion of oils and water. The compound’s high refractive index and low viscosity make it a valuable additive in optical fibers, improving light transmission and reducing signal loss in telecommunications. In Finland’s automotive sector, fluorokelaatuihin has been added to lubricants to extend engine life and improve temperature tolerance.

Safety data indicate that fluorokelaatuihin is relatively non-toxic to aquatic organisms but should be handled with protective gloves and eye protection, as prolonged skin contact can cause irritation. The compound is not classified as a carcinogen by the European Union’s REACH regulation, though long-term exposure studies remain limited.

Fluorokelaatuihin continues to be a subject of research, particularly for its potential use in biomedical devices, where its fluorinated structure may reduce protein adsorption on implant surfaces. The molecule is also being investigated as a low‑toxic additive in biodegradable plastics, aiming to combine fluorine’s durability with environmental compatibility. As of 2024, it is produced primarily in Finland and a few European specialty chemical firms, with export to Japan and the United States under strict regulatory oversight.