Chlorotrifluoroethylene in the green process: technology, application and safety regulations
Product Introduction
Chlorotrifluoroethylene (CAS No. 79-38-9), with the chemical formula C₂ClF₃, is a colorless, odorless, easily liquefied gas with a melting point of -157.5°C, a boiling point of -27.8°C, and a density of 1.56 g/cm³ at 20°C. Its molecular structure contains vinyl groups substituted with three fluorine atoms and one chlorine atom, endowing it with extremely high chemical and thermal stability. Chlorotrifluoroethylene is an important fluorinated monomer widely used in the synthesis of high-performance polymers.
Product Usage
1. Polymer materials:
As a monomer to synthesize polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), this polymer has excellent chemical corrosion resistance, weather resistance and low permeability, and is used to manufacture chemical corrosion-resistant equipment, valves, pipes and pump bodies.
Used in the synthesis of fluororubber (FKM), improving the rubber's resistance to high temperatures, oils and solvents, and is used in aerospace, automotive seals and petrochemical fields.
2. Electronics and electrical:
Manufacture high-temperature wire and cable insulation layers that can be used for long periods of time at temperatures between -60°C and 200°C, meeting the needs of the aerospace and nuclear industries.
Used to prepare packaging materials for electronic components to protect circuits from moisture and chemical corrosion.
3. Optical and film materials:
Synthetic transparent optical films used in anti-fog, anti-reflective coatings and solar cell backsheets.
Prepare gas separation membranes to achieve efficient and selective gas permeation, which are used in hydrogen purification and natural gas purification.
Precautions
1. Operational safety:
Chlorotrifluoroethylene is flammable and can form explosive mixtures when mixed with air. Keep away from fire and heat sources when handling.
Avoid inhalation of gas or contact with skin and eyes; wear a gas mask, chemical protective clothing and goggles.
Storage containers must comply with pressure vessel standards and valves and seals must be checked regularly.
2. Storage conditions:
Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures to prevent the pressure inside the container from increasing.
3. Emergency treatment:
Skin contact: Immediately rinse with plenty of water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
Eye contact: Flush with saline solution while lifting the eyelids and seek medical attention if necessary.
Leakage treatment: Wear protective equipment, turn off the gas source, and use sand or vermiculite to absorb the leak to prevent dust from spreading.
4. Environmental protection requirements:
Waste must be handled by professional institutions and is prohibited from being discharged into the atmosphere or sewers.
Production waste gas must be absorbed by alkaline solution and adsorbed with activated carbon before being discharged to meet standards, so as to reduce damage to the ozone layer.
Conclusion
Chlorotrifluoroethylene, thanks to its excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability, has become an indispensable raw material in high-end manufacturing. With increasingly stringent environmental regulations, its production processes are evolving towards greener, lower-energy processes. Manufacturers must strictly adhere to safety regulations and ensure complete control from raw materials to finished product to promote the sustainable development of the chlorotrifluoroethylene industry.