13637-63-3

  • Chemical Name: Chlorine Pentafluoride
  • Synonyms: Chlorine fluoride (ClF₅), Pentafluoro-λ⁵-chlorane.
  • Molecular Formula: ClF₅
  • Molecular Weight: 130.45 g/mol.
  • CAS Number: 13637-63-3.
  • EINECS Number: 237-123-6.

Physical Properties

  • Appearance: Colorless gas with a pungent odor.
  • Density: 1.774 g/L (estimate).
  • Melting Point: -103°C.
  • Boiling Point: -13.1°C.
  • Solubility: Soluble in water, but reacts violently to produce hydrofluoric acid and toxic chloride gas.

Chemical Properties

  • Reactivity:
    • Strong oxidizing agent and fluorinating agent.
    • Reacts violently with water, ice, and many metals.
    • Decomposes to release toxic fumes of chlorine and fluorine when heated.
  • Decomposition: Releases highly toxic gases (e.g., HF, Cl₂) upon contact with moisture or heat.

Uses

  • Rocket Propellants: Used as an oxidizer in rocket fuels.
  • Fluorinating Agent: Used in chemical synthesis to introduce fluorine atoms.
  • Semiconductor Industry: Used for etching silicon wafers.
  • Nuclear Fuel Processing: Used in the production of uranium hexafluoride.

Safety and Hazards

  • Toxicity: Highly toxic; inhalation can cause severe respiratory issues and burns.
  • Corrosivity: Corrosive to skin and metals; causes severe burns upon contact.
  • Storage: Store in airtight containers, away from water and moisture.
  • Handling: Requires specialized equipment and protective gear due to its highly reactive nature.
  • Fire Hazard: Supports combustion and can ignite non-flammable materials like sand or asbestos.

Environmental Impact

  • Toxic Gases: Reacts with water to produce toxic gases like hydrofluoric acid (HF) and chlorine gas (Cl₂).
  • Acid Rain: Can contribute to acid rain if released into the atmosphere.
  • Soil and Water Contamination: Potential to contaminate soil and water sources.

Packing and shipping