Trifluoromethane

Trifluoromethane, also known as fluoroform, is a halogenated methane with the chemical formula CHF3. It is a colorless, nonflammable gas at room temperature, with a boiling point near −82 °C and a molecular weight of about 69 g/mol. As one of the simplest fluorinated hydrocarbons, CHF3 is relatively inert under normal conditions and is denser than air.

Industrial production and use: CHF3 is manufactured for various applications, most notably as a refrigerant known as R-23 for low-temperature cooling systems. It is also used as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of other fluorinated compounds and can serve as a processing gas in certain manufacturing environments. Because of its thermal stability and gas form at ambient conditions, it is handled as a compressed gas in appropriate equipment.

Environmental considerations: CHF3 is a long-lived greenhouse gas with a high global warming potential, contributing to climate change when released to the atmosphere. It has zero ozone depletion potential. Due to its climate impact, production and emissions are subject to international regulation and many applications have shifted toward lower-GWP alternatives where feasible.

Safety and handling: As a gas heavier than air, CHF3 can act as an asphyxiant in poorly ventilated spaces and should be handled with appropriate containment and ventilation. It is not considered flammable, but standard gas-handling procedures apply to prevent leaks and exposure.