| abstract |
Secondary polyfluoropropanols of formula (I), (II) and (III) are prepared by subjecting 1,3-dihalo-1,1,3,3-tetrafluoroacetone, 3-halo-1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoroacetone or 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoroacetone in the vapour phase to catalytic reduction with hydrogen, using a catalyst consisting of palladium on carbon, the halogen consisting of bromine or chlorine. CHF2CH(OH)CHF2 (I) CHF2CH(OH)CF3 (II) CF3CH(OH)CF3 (III). The polyfluoropropanols are useful as solvents for polymers such as polyamides, and as intermediates in the prepn. of polymers, anaesthetics and surface active agents. |