The Specialty Hydrofluoroether Solvent and Pharmaceutical Intermediate for High-Performance Applications: 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl Ethyl Ether (HFPEE, CAS# 380-34-7)

1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether (CAS# 380-34-7), also known as HFPEE, ethyl 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ether, 1-ethoxy-1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane, or 2-ethoxy-1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane, is a highly fluorinated ether with the molecular formula C₅H₆F₆O and a molecular weight of 196.09 g/mol. Its molecular structure combines a hexafluoropropyl moiety with an ethyl ether group, creating a compound that exhibits high chemical inertness and low intermolecular forces—characteristic of the hydrofluoroether (HFE) class of solvents. This unique combination of high fluorine content and moderate volatility positions HFPEE as a versatile specialty solvent and synthetic intermediate in organic synthesis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and precision cleaning applications.

As a colorless transparent liquid with a boiling point range of 64–71°C, a density of 1.32 g/cm³, and a refractive index of 1.305, HFPEE is classified as a highly flammable liquid and vapor (H225) and is also a skin and eye irritant. It is typically supplied at ≥97% purity (GC) with higher grades available at ≥98%. The compound should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from ignition sources and oxidizing agents.

HFPEE occupies a specialized position within the hydrofluoroether class—a family of compounds known for their high chemical inertness, low toxicity, and favorable environmental profiles. Within this class, the specific pattern of hydrogen versus fluorine substitution dictates critical performance parameters including boiling point, vapor pressure, evaporative cooling performance, drying times in precision cleaning, and azeotropic behavior in separation processes. HFPEE’s balanced fluorination makes it valuable as a specialty solvent in organic synthesis, a pharmaceutical intermediate, and a selective fluoride donor in halogen-exchange reactions. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important fluorinated ether.

Key Properties and Reactivity Profile

1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether (CAS# 380-34-7) is a hydrofluoroether whose value derives from its unique combination of high fluorine content, chemical inertness, and moderate volatility.

Key physicochemical parameters include:

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₆F₆O
• Molecular Weight: 196.09 g/mol
• CAS Number: 380-34-7
• MDL Number: MFCD00236122
• Synonyms: HFPEE; Ethyl 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ether; 1-Ethoxy-1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane; 2-Ethoxy-1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane
• IUPAC Name: 1-ethoxy-1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane
• Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid
• Purity: ≥97% (GC); ≥98% (GC) available
• Boiling Point: 64–71°C (literature values vary; TCI specifies 65°C)
• Density: 1.321 g/cm³
• Refractive Index: 1.305
• Flash Point: −10°C (closed cup)
• LogP: 2.5161
• PSA: 9.23 Ų
• SMILES: CCOC(C(C(F)(F)F)F)(F)F
• InChIKey: DMECHFLLAQSVAD-UHFFFAOYSA-N
• UN Number: UN 3271 (Ethers, n.o.s.), Packing Group II, Hazard Class 3
• GHS Classification: Danger; H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), H335 (May cause respiratory irritation)
• Storage: Room temperature (15°C or below in a cool, dry place)

The compound’s reactivity is defined by its highly fluorinated structure. The hexafluoropropyl moiety provides strong electron-withdrawing character, while the ether linkage offers a site for selective cleavage and functionalization. HFPEE’s potential to act as a selective fluoride donor in halogen-exchange reactions is structure-dependent, varying significantly among structurally similar HFEs. The specific pattern of hydrogen versus fluorine substitution modulates chemical reactivity, making HFPEE a valuable reagent in selective fluorination and halogen-exchange reactions.

Core Application Fields and Demand

Market demand for 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether (CAS# 380-34-7) is concentrated in three primary sectors: specialty solvents for organic synthesis (approximately 40–45% of global consumption), pharmaceutical intermediates and API manufacturing (approximately 30–35%), and precision cleaning, electronics, and fluorination chemistry (approximately 20–25%). Its unique combination of high chemical inertness, moderate volatility, and selective fluoride donor capability serves as the core driver of sustained demand growth.

In specialty solvent applications, HFPEE serves as an effective solvent in various chemical reactions, particularly in organic synthesis, due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances without interfering with the reaction process. Its high fluorine content imparts excellent chemical inertness, making it compatible with highly reactive reagents and sensitive reaction conditions. HFPEE is particularly valuable as a solvent in fluorination reactions, where conventional solvents may undergo unwanted side reactions. The compound’s moderate boiling point (64–71°C) allows for easy removal by evaporation, facilitating product isolation and purification. As a member of the hydrofluoroether class, HFPEE is also considered a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone-depleting solvents in precision cleaning applications.

In pharmaceutical intermediates and API manufacturing, HFPEE serves as a key intermediate for R&D and production of pharmaceuticals. The compound is utilized in the synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, where its fluorinated structure is incorporated into active pharmaceutical ingredients to enhance metabolic stability, lipophilicity, and bioavailability. HFPEE is specifically used as a pharmaceutical intermediate in the production of various therapeutic compounds. The compound’s ability to act as a selective fluoride donor makes it valuable in the synthesis of fluorine-containing drugs, a rapidly growing class of pharmaceuticals that now accounts for approximately 20–25% of marketed drugs. The compound has been cited as an intermediate in the synthesis of nintedanib impurities, demonstrating its utility in pharmaceutical quality control and impurity profiling.

In precision cleaning, electronics, and fluorination chemistry, HFPEE is utilized as a specialty solvent for precision cleaning of electronic components and as a reagent for selective fluorination and halogen-exchange reactions. The compound’s high chemical inertness and low toxicity make it suitable for applications requiring high-purity solvents that do not leave residues or interfere with sensitive electronic components. Its moderate volatility and density (1.321 g/cm³) are well-suited for precision cleaning processes where controlled evaporation and effective soil removal are critical. HFPEE is also employed as a surfactant and extraction agent in various chemical processes.

Major Market Participants

The global supply system for 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether (CAS# 380-34-7) features a pattern of “specialized fluorochemical manufacturers, multinational research chemical distributors, and Chinese producers serving distinct market segments.” As a specialized hydrofluoroether rather than a bulk commodity, the market is characterized by a limited number of suppliers catering to pharmaceutical R&D, specialty chemical synthesis, and electronics applications. According to the Global Market Report of 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl Ethyl Ether (CAS 380-34-7), the report provides comprehensive data on the compound globally and regionally (Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, etc.), capturing market trends and paying close attention to manufacturers and consumers.

In the global research and high-purity segment, key international suppliers include Tokyo Chemical Industry (TCI), offering the compound at >98.0% purity under product code E1020, with stock available in the USA and Japan. Thermo Fisher Scientific (Alfa Aesar) offers the compound at 97% purity under catalog number OFC380347-2, with a molecular weight of 196.09 and density of 1.321 g/cm³. Oakwood Chemical offers the compound at 97% purity under product number 006572, with UN 3271 classification and limited quantities of 1.0 L available. Santa Cruz Biotechnology offers HFPEE for research applications. AK Scientific (AKSci) offers the compound at 97% purity under product code 2027AE. BenchChem offers the compound at ≥98% (GC) purity under catalog number B1350596 with standard pack sizes of 10 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, and custom bulk synthesis available on request. abcr GmbH (Germany) offers the compound at 97% purity under product code AB112538. Indofine Chemical Company offers the compound with pricing starting at $85.00 per gram. Chem-Impex International offers the compound for research applications. These suppliers serve the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic research communities with products that meet rigorous quality specifications.

In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as significant players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-purity 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether from China, offering the compound with stringent quality standards for use in pharmaceutical synthesis, specialty solvents, and fluorination chemistry applications. XinChem provides HFPEE as a colorless liquid with comprehensive quality documentation and flexible packaging options. The company emphasizes that HFPEE is a colorless liquid with low toxicity, possesses good thermal and chemical stability, and does not react with most common chemicals at room temperature. XinChem offers the compound for applications including solvents, extraction agents, and surfactants. Other Chinese suppliers include Hangzhou Xinfluorine Pharmaceutical Technology (杭州新氟医药科技有限公司) , offering the compound under CAS 380-34-7 with contact details available through chemical databases. LIDE Pharmaceuticals Ltd. , established in 2010 in Hong Kong, offers the compound as a professional chemicals and APIs manufacturer with 99% minimum purity. MolCore (摩库) offers the compound at NLT 98% purity, compliant with ISO certification systems for global pharmaceutical R&D and quality control requirements. Guangdong Yuanfeng Chemical Reagent (广东元丰化学试剂) offers the compound in packaging sizes from 25 g to 25 kg. Hubei Yongkuo Technology (湖北永阔科技) offers the compound under product number YK4800. Wuhan Chengtian Fine Chemical offers the compound with pricing of ¥350 per 250 g, ¥680 per 500 g, and ¥1300 per 1000 g at 99.0% purity. Shanghai Aladdin Biochemical Technology offers the compound at 97% purity with pricing of $68.90 for 1 g, $218.90 for 5 g, and $1,029.90 for 25 g.

Regional Market Dynamics

The global 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the pharmaceutical, specialty chemical, and electronics industries in these regions. According to the Global Market Report of 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl Ethyl Ether (CAS 380-34-7), comprehensive data is available globally and regionally covering Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and other regions, including market trends, manufacturers, consumers, production situation, capacity statistics, supply status, price analysis, and import/export situation.

The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a significant production hub for 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether, with China hosting numerous manufacturers and suppliers including XinChem. The region’s competitive advantages include established chemical infrastructure, cost-effective manufacturing, and proximity to rapidly growing pharmaceutical and electronics industries. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades (typically 97–99%) and packaging options—from grams to multi-kilogram quantities—serving both domestic and export markets. The growing pharmaceutical R&D, specialty chemical, and electronics sectors in China, Japan, South Korea, and India continue to drive regional consumption growth. TCI Chemicals maintains inventory in Japan and China, with the ability to ship from Shanghai and Tianjin warehouses. Chinese suppliers such as Wuhan Chengtian Fine Chemical offer competitive pricing at ¥350 per 250 g for 99.0% purity material.

North America remains a key market for high-purity and research-grade 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether, driven by demand from the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology companies, and academic research institutions. The United States hosts numerous research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and contract research organizations that require high-quality fluorinated building blocks for drug discovery and development. Thermo Fisher Scientific, Oakwood Chemical, Santa Cruz Biotechnology, and AK Scientific serve the North American market with extensive distribution networks. The region’s well-established regulatory framework and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade research chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates.

Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements, including REACH registration, and a strong focus on quality and sustainability in pharmaceutical and chemical research. European pharmaceutical companies, specialty chemical manufacturers, and research institutions demand high-purity fluorinated ethers with comprehensive documentation. abcr GmbH (Germany), Chem-Impex International, and other distributors serve the European market with in-stock availability.

Japan represents a specialized market where 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether is supplied by Tokyo Chemical Industry (TCI) and other distributors for pharmaceutical research, specialty solvent applications, and fine chemical synthesis.

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

As a flammable fluorinated ether and pharmaceutical intermediate, 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether (CAS# 380-34-7) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.

GHS classification and handling: 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether is classified with the signal word “Danger”. Hazard statements include H225 (Highly flammable liquid and vapour), H315 (Causes skin irritation), H319 (Causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (May cause respiratory irritation). Precautionary statements include P210 (Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces; no smoking), P233 (Keep container tightly closed), P280 (Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection), P301+P312 (IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell), P303+P361+P353 (IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing; rinse skin with water/shower), P304+P340 (IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing), and P305+P351+P338 (IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing). The compound should be stored at room temperature (15°C or below in a cool, dry place) and protected from moisture and ignition sources.

Transport information: 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether is classified as a dangerous good for international transport under UN 3271 (Ethers, n.o.s.), Hazard Class 3, Packing Group II. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and other transport regulations. The compound is typically shipped at ambient temperature with appropriate flammable liquid handling procedures.

Regulatory compliance: In the European Union, the compound must comply with REACH registration requirements for import and use. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation. In the United States, 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether is intended for research and development use only and is not intended for therapeutic, food, cosmetic, or consumer applications unless explicitly stated otherwise. For pharmaceutical intermediate applications, manufacturers must comply with relevant FDA regulations and quality standards.

Future Outlook

The market outlook for 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether is positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. While the compound remains a relatively specialized hydrofluoroether, its unique combination of high chemical inertness, moderate volatility, and selective fluoride donor capability positions it for steady growth in the coming years.

Key growth drivers include:

1. Expansion of fluorinated pharmaceutical R&D: The growing emphasis on fluorine incorporation in drug design drives demand for versatile fluorinated building blocks and intermediates. Approximately 20–25% of marketed pharmaceuticals contain fluorine, and this proportion continues to grow, supporting demand for compounds like HFPEE that enable selective fluorination and halogen-exchange reactions.
2. Growth in specialty solvent applications: The increasing use of hydrofluoroethers as environmentally friendly alternatives to CFCs and other ozone-depleting solvents in precision cleaning and electronics manufacturing supports demand for HFPEE. Its moderate boiling point and high chemical inertness make it well-suited for precision cleaning applications where controlled evaporation and effective soil removal are critical.
3. Expansion of pharmaceutical intermediate manufacturing: The growth of pharmaceutical R&D and API manufacturing in China and India—driven by increasing investment in generic drug production and innovative drug discovery—supports demand for high-quality fluorinated intermediates like HFPEE. The compound’s documented use in the synthesis of nintedanib impurities demonstrates its utility in pharmaceutical quality control.
4. Increasing focus on selective fluorination chemistry: The growing importance of selective fluorination in organic synthesis drives demand for reagents with structure-dependent fluoride donor capabilities. HFPEE’s potential to act as a selective fluoride donor in halogen-exchange reactions positions it as a valuable tool for synthetic chemists developing novel fluorinated compounds.
5. Growth in electronics and precision cleaning: The expanding electronics industry and the phase-out of traditional ozone-depleting solvents create new opportunities for HFPEE as a specialty solvent for precision cleaning of electronic components.

Challenges and considerations:

• Flammability and handling requirements: HFPEE’s classification as a highly flammable liquid (H225, UN 3271) requires specialized handling, packaging, and shipping procedures that may increase costs.
• Limited scale: As a specialized hydrofluoroether, the market for HFPEE is smaller than that of commodity fluorinated solvents.
• Competition from alternative HFEs: The market faces competition from other hydrofluoroethers with different boiling points and vapor pressure profiles. The specific pattern of hydrogen versus fluorine substitution in HFPEE produces performance characteristics that differ from other HFEs, necessitating careful selection based on specific application requirements.
• Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent chemical and pharmaceutical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.

To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products, flexible packaging options, and technical support for pharmaceutical, specialty solvent, and fluorination chemistry applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.

Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)

As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and fluorinated specialty intermediates, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the pharmaceutical, specialty chemical, and electronics industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl Ethyl Ether (CAS# 380-34-7) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for pharmaceutical companies, specialty chemical manufacturers, and research institutions seeking this versatile hydrofluoroether solvent and intermediate.

1. Technical Advantages

Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether products. The production process incorporates established synthetic routes—including the reaction of ethanol with hexafluoropropene followed by etherification and purification—enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥97% (GC) and ≥98% (GC) available to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent product quality, minimal impurities, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in pharmaceutical synthesis, specialty solvent applications, and fluorination chemistry.

Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (GC), density, refractive index, boiling point, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether meets the stringent requirements of pharmaceutical R&D, specialty chemical synthesis, and electronics applications.

2. Product Advantages

High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ethyl ether with purity ≥97% (GC) and ≥98% (GC) available, ensuring optimal performance in pharmaceutical synthesis, specialty solvent applications, and fluorination chemistry. The product’s high purity minimizes the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in drug discovery, precision cleaning, and selective fluorination.

Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₆F₆O
• Molecular Weight: 196.09 g/mol
• CAS Number: 380-34-7
• Synonyms: HFPEE; Ethyl 1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropyl ether; 1-Ethoxy-1,1,2,3,3,3-hexafluoropropane; 2-Ethoxy-1,1,1,2,3,3-hexafluoropropane
• MDL Number: MFCD00236122
• Appearance: Colorless transparent liquid
• Purity: ≥97% (GC) / ≥98% (GC) available
• Boiling Point: 64–71°C
• Density: 1.321 g/cm³
• Refractive Index: 1.305
• Flash Point: −10°C
• LogP: 2.5161
• Storage: Room temperature (15°C or below in a cool, dry place)

Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities (10 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 1 g) to industrial-scale packaging (5 g, 25 g, 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg) and bulk shipments. Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation with appropriate flammable liquid handling procedures (UN 3271, Class 3, PG II).

3. Application Fields

As a versatile specialty hydrofluoroether, 1,1,2,3,3,3-Hexafluoropropyl Ethyl Ether (CAS# 380-34-7) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:

Pharmaceutical Synthesis and Intermediates:

• Key intermediate for R&D and production of pharmaceuticals
• Precursor for fluorine-containing drug candidates with enhanced metabolic stability
• Intermediate for the synthesis of nintedanib impurities
• Reagent for selective fluorination and halogen-exchange reactions

Specialty Solvent Applications:

• Effective solvent for organic synthesis and chemical reactions
• Dissolves a wide range of substances without interfering with reaction processes
• Environmentally friendly alternative to CFCs in precision cleaning
• Solvent for fluorination reactions requiring high chemical inertness

Precision Cleaning and Electronics:

• Specialty solvent for precision cleaning of electronic components
• Controlled evaporation and effective soil removal
• High-purity solvent that does not leave residues

Other Industrial Applications:

• Surfactant and extraction agent in chemical processes
• Reagent for fluorination chemistry and halogen-exchange reactions
• Component in specialty formulations requiring high chemical stability

4. Service Support

Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of synthetic routes, guidance on handling flammable compounds, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial quantities are available upon request.

Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations (UN 3271, Class 3, PG II), customs clearance, and documentation, with appropriate flammable liquid handling and temperature control for product stability.

Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, TSCA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.

5. Reasons to Choose XinChem

• Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in fluorinated specialty chemical synthesis and supply.
• Quality: Rigorous quality control, high purity (≥97% to ≥98%), and adherence to international standards.
• Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
• Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including custom synthesis and packaging.
• Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.

Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!

Website: www.xinchem.com

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