What Is Cesium Fluoride?
Cesium fluoride is an inorganic compound, characterized by its combination of fluoride and cesium ions. It’s notable for its hygroscopic nature, with the CAS registration number 13400-13-0. This compound serves as a source of fluoride ions and acts as a base in various chemical reactions.
Cesium fluoride is identified as a hazardous substance requiring proper labeling and notification. Additionally, it’s classified as a Class I designated chemical substance..
Uses of Cesium Fluoride
In the field of chemistry, cesium fluoride is versatile, utilized as:
- A fluoride ion source in organofluorine chemistry.
- A base in organic synthesis, valued for its low nucleophilicity.
- A window plate in infrared spectroscopy for its infrared light transmission properties, aiding in the analytical method where the spectral analysis of reflected and transmitted light is crucial.
Properties of Cesium Fluoride
With a formula weight of 151.90, cesium fluoride boasts a melting point of 682°C and a boiling point of 1,251°C. It appears as a white solid or powder and is characterized by its density of 4.115 g/mL. Though hygroscopic, it can be dried by heating under reduced pressure. It dissolves in methanol and water but shows insolubility in dioxane and pyridine.
Types of Cesium Fluoride
Available as reagent products for R&D and industrial materials, cesium fluoride is sold in quantities suitable for laboratory use, such as 5g to 1kg, requiring refrigerated storage. For industrial applications, like flux raw materials and pharmaceutical intermediates, it’s sold in larger, commercial-use capacities.
Other Information on Cesium Fluoride
1. Synthesis of Cesium Fluoride
It can be synthesized by reacting hydrogen fluoride with cesium hydroxide or cesium carbonate, followed by water removal.
2. Chemical Reaction of Cesium Fluoride
Cesium fluoride is highly reactive, dissociating almost completely in non-aqueous solutions to provide a weakly basic solution. Its reactivity with silicon substituents and utility in desilylation reactions and deprotection of silyl ethers highlight its significance in organic synthesis.
3. Safety Information on Cesium Fluoride
While moderately toxic, cesium fluoride’s interaction with acids produces highly toxic hydrogen fluoride. Recommended storage is in a closed container within a refrigerator (2-10°C), avoiding high temperatures, direct sunlight, acids, and strong oxidizing agents to maintain stability.