Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether: properties, applications and safety

General Description

Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether (MNE) is a clear, colorless liquid with a fruity odor. It has properties such as high chemical stability, low viscosity, excellent electrical insulation, and a wide temperature range of usability. MNE is used in the design of switchable acoustic demultiplexers based on a fluid-fluid phononic crystal platform. It enables the difference in resonant modes and temperature-dependent switching capability in dissimilar cavities. MNE is considered a non-hazardous substance, but precautions should be taken when handling it to avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. In case of exposure, proper first-aid measures should be followed. Additionally, MNE can release toxic gases and vapors when exposed to high temperatures, so fire safety precautions are necessary. Proper storage in a well-ventilated area is recommended.

Figure 1. Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether

Properties

Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether is a chemical compound with specific properties. It is a clear, colorless liquid that has a low boiling point and a characteristic fruity odor. MNE is soluble in organic solvents and exhibits immiscibility with water. One of the notable properties of MNE is its high chemical stability. It is resistant to oxidation and does not readily react with common reagents under normal conditions.  Another important property of MNE is its relatively low viscosity. This makes it easy to handle and enables efficient mixing with other substances. Additionally, MNE has a low surface tension, which can contribute to better wetting and spreading capabilities. MNE is also recognized for its excellent electrical insulating properties. It has a high dielectric constant and low dissipation factor, which make it useful in electrical and electronic applications that require insulation and protection. Moreover, MNE has a relatively wide temperature range of usability, with a low freezing point and a high boiling point. In summary, Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether exhibits properties such as high chemical stability, low viscosity, excellent electrical insulation, wide temperature range usability, and flammability, which make it suitable for various industrial applications. ¹

Applications

Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether plays a crucial role in the design of switchable acoustic demultiplexers based on a fluid-fluid phononic crystal (PnC) platform. In this platform, a T-shaped PnC waveguide is connected to two output waveguide ports through dissimilar point-defect cavities. The PnC platform consists of a periodic array of infinitely long rods of water (inclusions) embedded in a mercury background. The waveguides are created by removing a row or column of inclusions from the PnC. The key aspect is that one of the dissimilar cavities contains MNE, while the other contains ethyl nonafluorobutyl ether (ENE). The sound velocity differs between MNE and ENE, resulting in distinct resonant modes in the dissimilar cavities. This difference is essential for achieving the demultiplexing functionality of the designed structure. Additionally, the different temperature dependencies of sound velocities in MNE and ENE allow for the switching of the multiplexed channel. By appropriately adjusting the temperature of the cavities, the multiplexed channel can be effectively switched on or off. Overall, methyl nonafluorobutyl ether acts as a critical component in enabling the switchable acoustic demultiplexers based on the fluid-fluid PnC platform by providing the necessary difference in resonant modes and temperature-dependent switching capability. ²

Safety

Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether is a non-hazardous substance according to the Globally Harmonized System. It does not pose any specific health or safety hazards. In case of inhalation, affected individuals should be moved to fresh air and medical attention should be sought if symptoms persist. Skin contact should be immediately washed off with soap and water, and medical attention should be sought if symptoms persist. If the chemical comes into contact with the eyes, they should be rinsed cautiously with water for several minutes, and immediate medical attention is required. Ingestion of the substance requires rinsing of the mouth, and professional medical assistance should be sought. First-aiders should wear personal protective equipment as necessary. In terms of fire safety, methyl nonafluorobutyl ether can release irritating and toxic gases and vapors when exposed to high temperatures. Suitable extinguishing media include water spray, carbon dioxide, foam, extinguishing powder, and sand. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full firefighting turnout gear. When handling and storing methyl nonafluorobutyl ether, precautions should be taken to avoid rough handling and prevent leakage, overflow, and scattering. Personal protective equipment should be used, and contact with skin, eyes, and clothing should be avoided. The substance should be stored in a well-ventilated place at room temperature, and the container should be tightly closed. ³

Reference

1. Arai J. A novel non-flammable electrolyte containing methyl nonafluorobutyl ether for lithium secondary batteries. Journal of Applied Electrochemistry, 2002, 32:1071–1079.

2. Rostami-Dogolsara B, Moravvej-Farshi MK, Nazari F. Designing Switchable Phononic Crystal-Based Acoustic Demultiplexer. IEEE Trans Ultrason Ferroelectr Freq Control, 2016, 63(9):1468-1473.

3. Safety Data Sheet: Methyl nonafluorobutyl ether. Fujifilm, 2019, Product Code:139-13412.