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Methyl perfluorobutyl ether (CAS No. 163702-08-7) is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid with a slight ether-like odor. It is a member of the perfluorinated ether family which includes perfluorobutane, perfluorohexane, perfluoroheptane, and perfluorooctane. It is produced by the reaction of methyl chloride and tetrafluoroethylene, followed by distillation and purification.
Methyl perfluorobutyl ether has a wide range of applications in the chemical industry, including use as a solvent, a reaction medium, an additive, and a blowing agent. As a solvent, it can be used to dissolve a variety of organic compounds and offers superior solubility for fluorinated compounds. The ether can be used as a reaction medium for a variety of synthetic reactions, including low-temperature reactions, and is also used as an additive to improve the solubility of other solvents in a reaction mixture. In the plastics industry, it is used as a blowing agent for polyvinyl chloride and polyurethane foams.
Methyl perfluorobutyl ether is also used to produce a variety of fluorinated polymers, including polytetrafluoroethylene, polytrifluoropropylene, polychlorotrifluoroethylene, and polyvinylidene fluoride. The ether is also used as an intermediate in the production of perfluorinated surfactants.
In terms of safety, methyl perfluorobutyl ether is a low-toxicity compound with an LD50 of >5000 mg/kg (oral, rat). It is not classified as a hazardous material under the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). However, it should still be handled with care, as it is highly flammable and may form explosive mixtures with air. It should also be stored in a cool, dry place, away from sources of ignition.