Perfluoro(2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic) acid (CAS 13252-13-6)

Perfluoro(2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic) acid is an organic compound that belongs to the family of perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). The ′perfluoro′ prefix denotes that all hydrogen atoms in the compound have been replaced with fluorine atoms. This substitution leads to unique properties such as high thermal stability and resistance to many chemical reactions due to the strength of the carbon-fluorine bond. The base structure of this particular compound is a 2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic acid, which is a six-carbon chain with an oxygen atom inserted at the third position (forming an ether linkage), a methyl group at the second position, and a carboxylic acid group at one end. The entire structure, apart from the oxygen and carboxylate group, is substituted with fluorine atoms. Given its fluorinated nature, Perfluoro(2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic) acid is hydrophobic and lipophobic, meaning it resists both water and oils. It also displays a high degree of chemical and thermal stability. In terms of physical properties, Perfluoro(2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic) acid is usually found as a white or off-white powder. Its primary use is in the industrial sector, where it is often utilized for its unique properties in a variety of applications, including as a surfactant or a component of fire-fighting foams.