Perfluoropentane

Perfluoropentane (C5F12) is the fully fluorinated analogue of pentane. It is a synthetic, colorless, nonpolar liquid at room temperature and belongs to the family of perfluorocarbons. It is essentially insoluble in water, has a relatively high density, and is nonflammable. Like other perfluorocarbons, it is chemically inert and thermally stable, with carbon–fluorine bonds that resist most common reactions.

Perfluoropentane dissolves gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide to a greater extent than many liquids, a property that has supported its use in biomedical contexts. It is typically handled as a high-purity liquid or as droplets in formulations for research use.

Applications of perfluoropentane are most prominent in biomedical imaging. In ultrasound, it is used as a phase-change contrast agent: droplets consisting of perfluoropentane can be delivered to tissues and vaporize into gas microbubbles when exposed to diagnostic ultrasound, enhancing image contrast. Beyond imaging, perfluoropentane and related perfluorocarbons have been explored as inert cores for drug delivery systems and as potential oxygen carriers in experimental settings. They are also used in research on liquid ventilation and other gas-transport concepts.

Safety and environmental considerations: Perfluoropentane is largely chemically inert, but inhalation can displace oxygen and pose asphyxiation risk. It is typically managed as a hazardous substance in industrial settings. Perfluorinated compounds are generally persistent in the environment and require careful handling to minimize releases and bioaccumulation concerns.