Reactions of trifluoromethyl radicals with propane, n-butane and isobutane

Abstract

The reactions of CF₃ radicals with propane, n-butane and isobutane have been studied using trifluoromethyl iodide as the source of free radicals. The overall Arrhenius parameters are: [graphic omitted] Analysis of the alkyl iodides in the products of each system allows calculation of the Arrhenius parameters for CF₃ hydrogen abstraction at specific sites in the hydrocarbons, providing the values: [graphic omitted] The relative rates of hydrogen abstraction by CF₃, C₂F₅ and CH₃ radicals at specific sites in alkanes are compared.