C6-C12 Perfluoroalkyl Iodide Mixture: Key FAQs

C6-C12 perfluoroalkyl iodide mixture is a blend of even-carbon-chain perfluoroalkyl iodides (CnF2n+1I, n = 6–12) widely used as telogen intermediates in fluorochemical synthesis, surface-treatment research, and the preparation of fluorosurfactants and fluoropolymer precursors.

SKU

P1530040

Chemical class

Perfluoroalkyl iodides (CnF2n+1I, n = 6, 8, 10, 12)

Key functional group

C–I bond at terminal carbon of perfluoroalkyl chain, enabling radical and ionic fluoroalkylation

Primary research uses

Telomerization, synthesis of fluorosurfactants, fluoropolymer precursors, surface-modification studies

Storage recommendation

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from light and moisture; follow SDS guidelines

Regulatory consideration

Long-chain PFAS (≥C8) are subject to evolving global regulations; verify local compliance before use

What Is the C6-C12 Perfluoroalkyl Iodide Mixture?

The C6-C12 perfluoroalkyl iodide (PFAI) mixture (SKU: P1530040) is a defined blend of linear perfluoroalkyl iodides with the general formula C_nF_2n+1I, where n represents even integers from 6 to 12 (i.e., C6, C8, C10, and C12 homologs). Each component consists of a fully fluorinated carbon chain terminated by a highly reactive carbon–iodine bond.

The C–I bond is substantially weaker than a C–F or C–Br bond, conferring high reactivity toward radical addition (telomerization) and transition-metal-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions. The perfluoroalkyl chain imparts exceptional chemical and thermal stability, extreme hydrophobicity, and oleophobicity to any molecule into which it is incorporated. These properties make PFAIs valuable intermediates for introducing perfluoroalkyl segments into target molecules across a range of industries and research disciplines.

Composition, Purity, and Specification Details

The mixture contains the C6, C8, C10, and C12 perfluoroalkyl iodide homologs as its principal components. The distribution of chain lengths in the blend is characteristic of industrial telomerization processes and provides a practical source of multiple PFAI chain lengths in a single reagent.

For precise purity grade, exact homolog ratios, and lot-specific certificate of analysis (CoA) data, researchers should consult the product page for P1530040 on the Aladdin Scientific website or contact technical support to request a CoA for the specific lot being purchased. Purity is typically verified by GC analysis.

Note for procurement: Lot-to-lot compositional consistency is confirmed by internal QC testing. Request a CoA at the time of order to ensure the reagent meets your experimental specifications.

Handling, Storage, and Safety

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Handle in a fume hood. Wear chemically resistant gloves (e.g., neoprene or nitrile), a lab coat, and safety glasses or a face shield. Avoid inhalation of vapors.

Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool (typically 2–8 °C or room temperature per SDS), dry, and well-ventilated location, away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and bases. Segregate from food and feedstuffs.

Waste disposal: Dispose of as hazardous fluorinated waste in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations. Do not pour down the drain. Consult your institution's environmental health and safety (EHS) office.

SDS: Always consult the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for P1530040 before use. The SDS is available on the Aladdin Scientific product page.

Research Applications and Reaction Chemistry

Telomerization: PFAIs are classical telogens in radical telomerization with ethylene or other olefinic taxogens, producing perfluoroalkylethyl iodides (R_FCH₂CH₂I) that serve as precursors to fluorosurfactants, fluorinated acrylates, and textile-treatment agents.

Radical perfluoroalkylation: Under photoredox, thermal, or chemical radical-initiation conditions, PFAIs add across olefins, alkynes, or electron-rich aromatics to install perfluoroalkyl groups, enabling structure–activity studies in medicinal chemistry and materials science.

Transition-metal catalysis: PFAIs participate in copper-, nickel-, and palladium-mediated cross-coupling and perfluoroalkylation reactions, providing a route to CF₃- and longer-chain RF-substituted compounds.

Surface-science studies: The mixture is used to prepare model fluorinated surfaces and self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) for wettability, lubrication, and adhesion studies.

Fluoropolymer research: As chain-transfer agents and co-monomers in fluoropolymer synthesis, PFAIs help control molecular weight and introduce functional end-groups.

Regulatory and Environmental Considerations

Long-chain perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), particularly those with eight or more perfluorinated carbons (≥C8), are subject to increasing regulatory scrutiny worldwide, including restrictions under REACH in the European Union and guidance from the US EPA. Researchers working with C8, C10, and C12 PFAI components should verify applicable regulations in their jurisdiction before procurement and use.

Environmental persistence is a recognized concern for long-chain PFAS. Implement strict containment measures, minimize waste generation, and engage with your institution's EHS office to ensure compliant disposal. Shorter-chain alternatives (C6) may be subject to different regulatory frameworks but are not necessarily without concern; consult current guidance.

Aladdin Scientific strongly recommends that all users review current local, national, and international PFAS regulations before ordering, handling, or disposing of this product.

Frequently asked questions

What chain lengths are present in the C6-C12 perfluoroalkyl iodide mixture (P1530040)?

The mixture contains even-carbon-chain perfluoroalkyl iodides with the general formula CnF2n+1I where n = 6, 8, 10, and 12. The exact weight-percent distribution of each homolog is lot-specific; please request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from Aladdin Scientific for precise compositional data.

How should the C6-C12 perfluoroalkyl iodide mixture be stored to maintain stability?

Store the product in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct light, heat sources, strong oxidizers, and moisture. Always refer to the current SDS for P1530040 on the Aladdin Scientific website for the most authoritative storage conditions and shelf-life guidance.

What are the primary synthetic applications of perfluoroalkyl iodides in laboratory research?

Perfluoroalkyl iodides are primarily used as telogens in radical telomerization reactions with olefins to produce fluorosurfactant and fluoropolymer precursors. They are also employed in radical and transition-metal-catalyzed perfluoroalkylation of organic substrates, enabling the introduction of hydrophobic and oleophobic perfluoroalkyl groups into target molecules for applications in materials science, surface chemistry, and medicinal chemistry.

Are there regulatory restrictions I should be aware of before ordering this product?

Yes. Long-chain PFAS components (particularly C8, C10, and C12 perfluoroalkyl iodides) are subject to evolving regulations in multiple jurisdictions, including REACH restrictions in the EU and US EPA PFAS action plans. Researchers and procurement officers should verify applicable national and regional regulations before ordering and ensure compliant handling and disposal practices are in place.

Can the individual chain-length homologs be obtained separately, or is the mixture the only available form?

P1530040 is offered as a mixture of C6–C12 homologs. For individual perfluoroalkyl iodide homologs (e.g., perfluorohexyl iodide, perfluorooctyl iodide), please search the Aladdin Scientific catalog or contact our technical sales team, as separate single-component products may be available.

References

1. Uneyama, K. Organofluorine Chemistry. Blackwell Publishing, 2006. (General reference on perfluoroalkyl iodide chemistry and telomerization.)
2. Chambers, R. D. Fluorine in Organic Chemistry. Blackwell Publishing / CRC Press, 2004. (Covers perfluoroalkylation reactions and PFAI reactivity.)
3. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Restriction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under REACH. ECHA website. (Regulatory reference for PFAS restrictions in the EU.)
4. US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). PFAS Strategic Roadmap: EPA's Commitments to Action 2021–2024. US EPA, 2021.

Products are supplied for research and development use only. Not for use in humans, animals, diagnosis, or therapy.