Cerium(IV) fluoride

Cerium(IV) fluoride, also known as ceric fluoride, is a chemical compound with the formula CeF₄. It is a yellow-greenish solid that is insoluble in water and stable under atmospheric conditions. This compound is one of the few stable cerium(IV) or ceric compounds, with cerium being in its +4 oxidation state, which is less common than the +3 oxidation state found in most cerium compounds.

Properties

Cerium(IV) fluoride is characterized by its high melting point and its insolubility in water. It is a powerful oxidizing agent in chemical reactions, capable of oxidizing hydrochloric acid to chlorine. Its physical and chemical properties make it useful in various applications, including glass manufacturing and as a catalyst in organic synthesis.

Synthesis

Cerium(IV) fluoride can be synthesized by the reaction of cerium(III) fluoride (CeF₃) with a strong oxidizing agent such as fluorine gas. The reaction is typically carried out at elevated temperatures to ensure the complete conversion of cerium(III) to cerium(IV).

Applications

The primary use of cerium(IV) fluoride is in the field of glass manufacturing, where it is used to produce UV-transmitting glass and as a glass polishing agent. Its oxidizing properties are also exploited in organic synthesis, where it is used as a catalyst in certain types of reactions.

Safety

As with many fluorides, cerium(IV) fluoride is considered to be toxic and should be handled with care. It is particularly dangerous if inhaled or ingested, as it can cause severe respiratory and gastrointestinal irritation.

See Also

• Cerium
• Fluoride
• Oxidizing agent
• Glass manufacturing