1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane
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| 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane<ref>NIST datapage for heptafluoropropane</ref> | |
|---|---|
| Image:FM-200-2D.png Image:FM-200-3D-vdW.png | |
| Chemical name | 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane |
| Other names | Heptafluoropropane Apaflurane HFC-227ea R-227ea HFC-227 |
| Chemical formula | C3HF7 |
| Molecular mass | 170.03 g/mol |
| CAS number | [431-89-0] |
| Density | 1.46 g/cm3 at -16 °C |
| Melting point | -131 °C |
| Boiling point | -16.4 °C |
| SMILES | FC(C(F)(F)F)C(F)(F)F |
| NFPA 704 | |
| Disclaimer and references | |
1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane, also called heptafluoropropane, HFC-227 or HFC-227ea (ISO name), is a colourless odourless gaseous halocarbon. It is commonly used as a gaseous fire suppression agent.
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[edit] Chemistry
Its chemical formula is CF3-CHF-CF3, or C3HF7. With a boiling point of -16.4 °C, it is a gas at room temperature. It is slightly soluble in water (260 mg/L).
[edit] Use
HFC-227ea finds use in fire suppression systems in data processing and telecommunication facilities, and in protection of many flammable liquids and gases. Effective fire suppression requires introducing 7% concentration of the HFC-227ea agent. Its NOAEL level for cardiac sensitization is 9%. It is safer than Halon 1301. EPA allows concentration of 9 volume % in occupied spaces without mandated egress time, or up to 10.5% for a limited time. Most fire suppression systems are designed to provide concentration of 7-7.5%.
HFC-227ea contains no chlorine or bromine atoms, presenting no ozone depletion effect. It is therefore an environment-friendly replacement for Halon 1301 and Halon 1211 based systems. Its atmospheric lifetime is approximated between 31 and 42 years. It leaves no residue or oily deposits and can be removed by ventilation.
As an aerosol propellant, HFC-227ea is used in pharmaceutical metered dose inhalers such as those used for dispensing asthma medication.
[edit] Safety
At high temperatures, heptafluoropropane may decompose and produce hydrogen fluoride. This is observable as presence of sharp, pungent odor, which can be perceived in concentrations far below a dangerous level. Other decomposition products include carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
Contact with liquid HFC-227ea may cause frostbites.
[edit] Tradenames for HFC-227ea used as fire suppression agent
- FE-227 (DuPont)
- FM-200 (Great Lakes Chemical Corporation)
- Solkaflam 227 (Solvay Fluor)
[edit] See also
Other fire suppression agents:
[edit] References
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