Tetrafluoroethylene

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A synthetic, colorless, flammable gas that is insoluble in water. Tetrafluoroethylene is used primarily in the synthesis of polytetrafluoroethylene resins. It is also used as a monomer in the synthesis of copolymers and as a propellant for food product aerosols. When heated to decomposition, tetrafluoroethylene emits highly toxic fluorocarbon fumes. The primary route of human exposure to this compound is inhalation. Acute inhalation exposure to tetrafluoroethylene may result in irritation of the respiratory tract and buildup of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema). Contact with this gas can cause eye irritation. This chemical is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - 1,1,2,2-Tetrafluoroethylene - Fluoroplast 4 - Perfluoroethene - Perfluoroethylene - TETRAFLUOROETHYLENE - TFE - Tetrafluoroethene