Electro Plating, High-Purity Solvents

Perfluorobutyl sulfonylfluoride (FC 4)

Perfluorobutyl sulfonyl fluoride, identified by CAS number 375-72-4 and often referred to as FC-4 or PBSF, is a vital perfluorinated intermediate within the specialty chemical industry. Structurally, it consists of a four-carbon perfluorinated chain attached to a reactive sulfonyl fluoride functional group. This clear, colorless liquid serves as a fundamental building block for synthesizing various fluorinated surfactants, textile treatment agents, and specialized polymers. Unlike longer-chain perfluorinated compounds, PBSF is a C4-based chemistry, which has become the industry standard for manufacturers transitioning away from C8-based substances due to environmental regulations and persistence concerns. Its high purity and chemical stability make it an essential reagent in organic synthesis, particularly for introducing perfluorobutanesulfonyl groups into organic molecules. Its unique physicochemical properties, including low surface tension and high thermal resistance, are leveraged in high-performance industrial applications. PBSF remains a critical precursor in the production of electronic-grade chemicals and high-quality coatings requiring superior durability characteristics.

Attributes

Key Features and Benefits

Provides a safer C4 alternative to C8 perfluorinated chains.
Exhibits exceptional thermal stability under extreme industrial conditions.
Highly reactive sulfonyl fluoride group enables versatile chemical modification.
Exceptional surface activity significantly reduces surface tension in formulations.
Offers superior water and oil repellency for surface treatments.
Chemically inert perfluorinated tail ensures longevity and durability.
High purity levels ensure consistent performance in sensitive applications.
Compatible with a wide range of organic solvents and polymer matrices.
Facilitates the synthesis of low-bioaccumulation perfluorinated surfactants and specialized additives.
Provides robust anti-corrosive properties for high-end industrial coating solutions.

Specifications

Technical Highlights

Molecular Formula: C4F9SO2F with a molar mass of 302.09 g/mol.
Appearance: Clear to light yellow liquid at room temperature.
Boiling Point: Approximately 64-66 degrees Celsius at standard pressure.
Density: High liquid density of approximately 1.7 g/cm3.
Refractive Index: Low refractive index typical of perfluorinated substances.
Reactivity: Selective reactivity toward nucleophiles like amines and alcohols.
Environmental: Shorter chain length results in lower bioaccumulation potential.
Storage: Requires airtight containers to prevent hydrolysis and moisture contamination.
Purity: Typically available at 98% or higher for industrial use.
Solubility: Immiscible in water but soluble in various fluorinated and organic solvents.

Download Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

Practical industry uses

Applications

Chemical Synthesis: Primary intermediate for perfluorobutanesulfonic acid and related salts.
Textile Industry: Used to manufacture durable water repellent (DWR) fabric coatings.
Electronics: Precursor for fluorinated photoacid generators (PAGs) in photolithography processes.
Surfactants: Synthesis of low-foam wetting agents for paints and inks.
Polymers: Modifier for high-performance resins to improve chemical resistance and flow.
Firefighting: Component in advanced fire-extinguishing foam formulations for flammable liquids.
Metal Plating: Additive for chromium plating baths to prevent mist and improve safety.
Paper Treatment: Oil-resistant coatings for specialty food packaging materials.
Laboratory Reagent: Selective sulfonylating agent for synthetic chemistry research.