Patent Publication Number: US-11661389-B2

Title: Fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers and methods for preparing fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers

Description:
This application claims the benefit of Application No. 62/745,733, filed on Oct. 15, 2018. The disclosure of Application No. 62/745,733 is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to alkoxyvinyl ethers and methods for preparing alkoxyvinyl ethers. More particularly, the present invention is directed to fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers and methods for preparing fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Certain fluorinated materials of general structure R f C(OCH 3 )═CFR f ′ are known, and such materials may be prepared by the reaction of alcohols with a variety of perfluorinated olefins, such as F-pentene-2 (known as a commercial intermediate) or F-heptenes (known as waste stream components form the production of other materials). By way of example, the product of the reaction of F-heptenes with methanol (HFX-110) has been proposed for use as a solvent with low toxicity and low global warming potential. 
     However, to date there has been no disclosure in the scientific literature of fluorinated chemical species having the general structure of R f C(OR)═CHR f ′, wherein R f ′ has at least two carbon atoms. Nor has there been any disclosure to date of a basic alcohol reaction pathway to prepare fluorinated chemical species having the general structure of R f C(OR)═CHR f ′, wherein R is an alkyl functional group. 
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     In an exemplary embodiment, an alkoxyvinyl ether has the chemical structure R f C(OR)═CHR f ′, wherein R f  is an at least partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is an at least partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether includes R f CFHCFHR f ′+KOH/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′, wherein R f  is a perfluoro functional group, R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group, and R is an alkyl functional group. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether includes R f CF═CHR f ′+KOH/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′, wherein R f  is a perfluoro functional group, R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group, and R is an alkyl functional group. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers wherein:
         R f  is a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom;   R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group having at least two carbon atoms; and   R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is a perfluoroalkyl functional group;   R f ′ is a perfluoroalkyl functional group having at least two carbon atoms; and   R is an alkyl functional group.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is a C 1-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group;   R f ′ is a C 2-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group; and   R is a C 1-12  alkyl functional group.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is selected from the group consisting of CF 3 , C 2 F 5 , n-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 7 , n-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 9 , and tert-C 4 F 9 ;   R f ′ is selected from the group consisting of C 2 F 5 , n-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 7 , n-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 9 , and tert-C 4 F 9 ; and   R is selected from the group consisting of CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , and tert-C 4 H 9 .       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom;   R f ′ is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms;   and   R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom;   R f ′ is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms; and   R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers, wherein:
         R f  is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom;   R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group having at least two carbon atoms; and   R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein:
         R f  is selected from the group consisting of CF 3 , CF 2 H, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, and tert-C 4 F 9 , tert-C 4 F 8 H;   R f ′ is selected from the group consisting of C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, and tert-C 4 F 9 , tert-C 4 F 8 H; and   R is selected from the group consisting of CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , and tert-C 4 H 9 .       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein R f  and R f ′ are the same. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein R f  and R f ′ are distinct. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the alkoxyvinyl ether is an E-isomer. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the alkoxyvinyl ether is a Z-isomer. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments wherein the alkoxyvinyl ether is a mixture of E- and Z-isomers. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the chemical structure is CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 2 F 5 . 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the chemical structure is CF 3 C(OC 2 H 5 )═CHC 2 F 5 . 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the chemical structure is CF 3 C(OC 3 H 7 )═CHC 2 F 5 . 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to any combination of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the chemical structure is C 2 F 5 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 3 F 7 . 
     One embodiment of the invention relates to a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether, comprising:
 
R f CFHCFHR f ′+Base/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′
         wherein:
           R f  is a perfluoro functional group;   R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group; and   R is an alkyl functional group.   
               

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether, comprising:
 
R f CF═CHR f ′+Base/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′
         wherein:
           R f  is a perfluoro functional group;   R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group; and   R is an alkyl functional group.   
               

     One embodiment of the invention relates to a solvent comprising any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers and at least one member selected from the group consisting of alcohols, ethers, tetrahydrofuran (THF), amides, or aromatic solvents. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to an alkoxyvinyl composition comprising:
         any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers;   at least one solvent including at least one of alcohols, ethers, tetrahydrofuran (THF), amides, or aromatic solvents; and   at least one base including at least one of KOH, NaOH, LiOH, Ca(OH) 2 , tertiary amines, or alkoxides of alkali metals ROM (M=Li, Na, K, Cs).       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a process for transferring heat, comprising:
         providing an article;   contacting the article with a heat transfer media;   wherein the heat transfer media comprises any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to the foregoing processes, wherein the boiling point of the alkoxyvinyl ether is between about 72 degrees Celsius and about 81 degrees Celsius. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a process for treating a surface, comprising:
         providing a surface;   contacting the surface with a treatment composition;   wherein the surface includes a treatable material deposited thereon; and   wherein the treatment composition comprises any of the foregoing combinations of alkoxyvinyl ethers.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to the foregoing processes, wherein the treatment composition substantially dissolves the treatable material. 
     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a process for forming a composition comprising:
         providing a solute;   contacting the solute with a solvent;   wherein the solvent comprises any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to a process for providing electrical insulation, comprising:
         providing a first charged surface;   providing a second charged surface;   contacting the first charged surface and the second charged surface with a dielectric composition;   wherein the dielectric composition comprises any combination of the foregoing alkoxyvinyl ethers.       

     Another embodiment of the invention relates to the foregoing processes, wherein the dielectric composition forms a continuous pathway between the first charged surface and the second charged surface. 
     The various embodiments of the invention can be used alone or in combinations with each other. Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description of the preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Provided are exemplary fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers and methods for preparing fluorinated alkoxyvinyl ethers. Embodiments of the present disclosure, in comparison to compositions of matter and methods not utilizing one or more features disclosed herein, include advantageous solvating properties, advantageous boiling point ranges, advantageous degreasing properties, advantageous heat transfer properties, decreased flammability, decreased atmospheric life time, increased polarity, or combinations thereof. 
     In some embodiments, the alkoxyvinyl ethers may find useful application as a cleaning agent or degreasing agent, a heat transfer media, a solvent, and/or a dielectric. 
     In one embodiment, an alkoxyvinyl ether has the following chemical structure:
 
R f C(OR)═CHR f ′
 
     R f  may be a partially fluorinated functional group or a perfluoro functional group, including, but not limited to, a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom, a partially fluorinated alkyl group, a perfluoroalkyl group, a C 1-12  partially fluorinated alkyl functional group, a C 1-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, CF 3 , CF 2 H, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, tert-C 4 F 9 , or tert-C 4 F 8 H. 
     R f ′ may be a partially fluorinated functional group or a perfluoro functional group, including, but not limited to, a partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms, a perfluoro functional group having at least two carbon atoms, a partially fluorinated alkyl group having at least two carbon atoms, a perfluoroalkyl group having at least two carbon atoms, a C 2-12  partially fluorinated alkyl functional group, a C 2-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, tert-C 4 F 9 , or tert-C 4 F 8 H. 
     R is a functional group which may be, but is not limited to, a functional group having at least one carbon atom, an alkyl functional group, a C 1-12  alkyl functional group, CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , or tert-C 4 H 9 . 
     The alkoxyvinyl ether may include any suitable combination of specific species of R, R f , and R f ′ disclosed herein. R f  and R f ′ may be identical or distinct from one another. 
     In one embodiment, R f  is an at least partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is an at least partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group. 
     In another embodiment, R f  is a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom. 
     In yet another embodiment, R f  is a perfluoroalkyl functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is a perfluoroalkyl functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is an alkyl functional group. 
     In still another embodiment, R f  is a C 1-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, R f ′ is a C 2-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, and R is a C 1-12  alkyl functional group. 
     In another embodiment, R f  is selected from the group consisting of CF 3 , C 2 F 5 , n-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 7 , n-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 9 , and tert-C 4 F 9 , R f ′ is selected from the group consisting of C 2 F 5 , n-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 7 , n-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 9 , and tert-C 4 F 9 , and R is selected from the group consisting of CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , and tert-C 4 H 9 . 
     In yet another embodiment, R f  is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom. 
     In still another embodiment, R f  is a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom. 
     In another embodiment, R f  is a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, R f ′ is a perfluoro functional group having at least two carbon atoms, and R is a functional group having at least one carbon atom. 
     In yet another embodiment, R f  is selected from the group consisting of CF 3 , CF 2 H, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, and tert-C 4 F 9 , tert-C 4 F 8 H, R f ′ is selected from the group consisting of C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, and tert-C 4 F 9 , tert-C 4 F 8 H, and R is selected from the group consisting of CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , and tert-C 4 H 9 . 
     The alkoxyvinyl ether may be an E-isomer, a Z-isomer, or a mixture of E- and Z-isomers. 
     The alkoxyvinyl ether may have any suitable chemical structure, including, but not limited to, CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 2 F 5 , CF 3 C(OC 2 H 5 )═CHC 2 F 5 , CF 3 C(OC 3 H 7 )═CHC 2 F 5 , and C 2 F 5 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 3 F 7 . 
     In one embodiment, an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CHR f ′ has a reduced flammability compared to an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CFR f ′. By way of example, on the basis of calculated heats of formation, CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 2 F 5  has a heat of combustion of about 2.08 kcal/g as compared to a heat of combustion of 2.58 kcal/g for CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CHCF 3 . The inventive alkoxyvinyl ethers can have a heat of combustion of less than about 2.1 kcal/g and, as a result, the inventive compounds can have a low or non-flammability rating. 
     In one embodiment, an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CHR f ′ has a reduced atmospheric lifetime compared to an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CFR f ′. The inventive alkoxyvinyl ethers can have an atmospheric lifetime ranging from about 10 to 200 days and, typically, less than 100 days. 
     In one embodiment, an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CHR f ′ has an increased polarity compared to an alkoxyvinyl ether having the structure R f C(OR)═CFR f ′. By way of example, on the basis of calculated dipole moments, CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CHC 2 F 5  has a dipole moment of 2.5460 D as compared to a dipole moment of 2.3965 D for CF 3 C(OCH 3 )═CFC 2 F 5 . The inventive alkoxyvinyl ethers can have a dipole moment of about 2 to about 5 D and in some cases about 2 to about 3D. 
     In one embodiment, a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether, includes:
 
R f CFHCFHR f ′+Base/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′
 
     The method may include a prior step of:
 
R f CF═CFR f ′+H 2 →R f CFHCFHR f ′
 
     In another embodiment, a method for preparing an alkoxyvinyl ether, includes:
 
R f CF═CHR f ′+Base/ROH→R f C(OR)═CHR f ′
 
     With respect to the methods for preparing the alkoxyvinyl ether: R f  may be a partially fluorinated functional group or a perfluoro functional group, including, but not limited to, a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom, a partially fluorinated alkyl group, a perfluoroalkyl group, a C 1-12  partially fluorinated alkyl functional group, a C 1-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, CF 3 , CF 2 H, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, tert-C 4 F 9 , or tert-C 4 F 8 H; R f ′ may be a partially fluorinated functional group or a perfluoro functional group, including, but not limited to, a partially fluorinated functional group having at least one carbon atom, a perfluoro functional group having at least one carbon atom, a partially fluorinated alkyl group, a perfluoroalkyl group, a C 1-12  partially fluorinated alkyl functional group, a C 1-12  perfluoroalkyl functional group, CF 3 , CF 2 H, C 2 F 5 , C 2 F 4 H, n-C 3 F 7 , n-C 3 F 6 H, iso-C 3 F 7 , iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 9 , n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 9 , sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 9 , iso-C 4 F 8 H, tert-C 4 F 9 , or tert-C 4 F 8 H; and R is a functional group which may be, but is not limited to, an alkyl functional group, a C 1-12  alkyl functional group, CH 3 , C 2 H 5 , n-C 3 H 7 , iso-C 3 H 7 , n-C 4 H 9 , sec-C 4 H 9 , iso-C 4 H 9 , or tert-C 4 H 9 . The method may include any suitable combination of specific species of R, R f , and R f ′ disclosed herein. R f  and R f ′ may be identical or distinct from one another. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, at least one alkyoxyl vinyl ether can interact or react with elimination of HF. In a particular embodiment, the elimination of HF can produce at least one alkyoxyl vinyl ether with an additional double bond. In one particular embodiment at least one of the following groups can eliminate HF under certain reaction conditions: iso-C 3 F 6 H, n-C 4 F 8 H, sec-C 4 F 8 H, iso-C 4 F 8 H, or tert-C 4 F 8 H. Without wishing to be bound by any theory or explanation, it is believed that an excess amount of base can promote the HF elimination. 
     The base may be any suitable base, including, but not limited to, KOH, NaOH, LiOH, Ca(OH) 2 , tertiary amines, and/or alkoxides of alkali metals ROM (M=Li, Na, K, Cs). The amount of base will be at least two moles per mole of reactant. If desired, the amount of reactant can be in excess of the molar amount of base and, unreacted material (if any) can be recycled in order to increase selectivity. 
     In some embodiments, the reaction composition may further include any suitable solvent, including, but not limited to, alcohols, ethers (e.g., glymes, diethyl ether, methyl-t-butyl ether), tetrahydrofuran (THF), amides, and/or aromatic solvents (e.g., benzene, toluene, xylenes). The amount of solvent can range from about 0.5 to about 500 moles per mole of reactant and, in some cases, about 5 to about 100 moles of solvent. 
     In some embodiments, the reaction may be performed in the absence of solvent, under phase-transfer catalysis (PTC) conditions. Suitable phase transfer catalysts include, but are not limited to, tetraalkylammonium salts, phosphonium salts, and/or crown ethers. The amount of catalyst can range from about 0.1 to about 50 mole percent relative to the reactant and, in some cases, about 5 to 15 mole percent. 
     In some embodiments, the reaction may be performed at a temperature of at least −20 degrees Celsius, at least 0 degrees Celsius, at least 10 degrees Celsius, at least 20 degrees Celsius, at least 25 degrees Celsius, at least 30 degrees Celsius, at least 40 degrees Celsius, less than 110 degrees Celsius, less than 100 degrees Celsius, less than 90 degrees Celsius, less than 80 degrees Celsius, less than 70 degrees Celsius, less than 60 degrees Celsius, less than 50 degrees Celsius, and combinations thereof. The reaction pressure can be conducted at atmospheric pressure and, if desired, the pressure can be increased to greater than atmospheric pressure (e.g., about 1 to about 100 atmospheres). 
     The alkoxyvinyl ether may be useful in various applications. In an embodiment, the alkoxyvinyl ether may be used in accordance with convention equipment and methods to transfer heat. The process may include providing an article and contacting the article with a heat transfer media including the alkoxyvinyl ether. In some embodiments, the article may include electrical equipment (e.g., circuit board, computer, display, semiconductor chip, or transformer), a heat transfer surface (e.g., heat sink), or article of clothing (e.g., a body suit). 
     In another embodiment, the alkoxyvinyl ether may be used in a process for treating a surface. The process may include providing a surface having a treatable material deposited thereon and contacting the surface with a treatment composition including the alkoxyvinyl ether. In some embodiments, the treatment composition may substantially dissolve the treatable material. While the inventive alkoxyvinyl ethers can be used in any suitable equipment and methods, examples of such methods are disclosed by WO2012/121749 and WO2010/094019; the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     In another embodiment, the alkoxyvinyl ether may be used in a process for forming a composition. The process includes providing a solute and contacting the solute with a solvent including the alkoxyvinyl ether. In some embodiments, the alkoxyvinyl ether may substantially dissolve the solute. Except for water, the inventive alkoxyvinyl ethers are miscible with conventional organic as well as fluorinated solvents. 
     In an embodiment, the alkoxyvinyl ether may be used in conventional equipment and in a process for providing electrical insulation. The process includes providing a first charged surface, providing a second charged surface, and contacting the first charged surface and the second charged surface with a dielectric composition including the alkoxyvinyl ether. In some embodiments, the dielectric composition forms a continuous pathway between the first charged surface and the second charged surface. In some embodiments, the first charged surface and the second charged surface may be substantially submerged in the dielectric composition. 
     The following Examples are provided to illustrate certain aspects of the invention and shall not limit the scope of the appended claims. 
     EXAMPLES 
     Example 1. Reaction of CF 3 CFHCFHC 2 F 5  (I) with CH 3 OH/KOH 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     A solution of 240 g (4.27 mol) of KOH in 1400 mL of methanol was placed in a 3 L round-bottomed flask equipped with reflux condenser, thermocouple, addition funnel and magnetic stir bar. The flask was immersed in ice cooling bath. Vertrel® XF (1,1,1,2,2,3,4,5,5,5-decafluoropentane, I, 504 g, 2 mol) was added dropwise to the cooled solution, while maintaining the internal temperature below 10° C. (˜3 hours). The reaction mixture was allowed to warm to ambient temperature overnight. The next morning the reaction mixture was washed in portions with a large excess of ice water in a separatory funnel. The fluorous layers were collected, combined, and washed with a saturated solution of sodium bicarbonate (1 L×2), dried with MgSO 4  and filtered to yield 448 g of crude product. Crude products from three consecutive runs were combined (total 1085 g) and distilled at atmospheric pressure, using a 16-inch-long distillation column. Distillation data and the composition of the fractions is shown in Table 1. 
     
       
         
           
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
            
               
                   
               
               
                 Distillation of Crude Reaction Mixture 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                   
                 Weight 
                 Pot Temp 
                 Head Temp 
                 Composition (wt %) 
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 Fraction 
                 (g) 
                 (° C.) 
                 (° C.) 
                 (I) 
                 (IIa)(IIb) 
                 (III) 
                 (IV) 
                 (V) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1 
                 12 
                 71.6-72     
                     56-59.8 
                 67 
                 33 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 2 
                 11 
                     72-72.1 
                 59.8-60.6 
                 63 
                 37 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 3 
                 11 
                 72.1-72.1 
                     62-66.1 
                 31 
                 68 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 4 
                 22 
                 72.1-72.5 
                 66.1-66.5 
                 24 
                 76 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 5 
                 27 
                 72.5-72.7 
                 66.5-69.1 
                 40 
                 60 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 6 
                 22 
                 72.7-72.7 
                 69.1-71.9 
                 17 
                 83 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 7 
                 20 
                 72.7-72.9 
                 71.9-72     
                 4.5 
                 95.1 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 8 
                 157 
                 73.2-73.3 
                     72-73.2 
                 2.9 
                 96.8 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 9 
                 133 
                 73.3-73.3 
                 73.2-73.2 
                 — 
                 99.4 
                 — 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 10 
                 164 
                 73.3-73.8 
                 73.2-73.2 
                 — 
                 98.5 
                 1.0 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 11 
                 111 
                 73.8-74.4 
                 73.2-73.3 
                 — 
                 98.7 
                 0.8 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 12 
                 117 
                 74.8-75.9 
                 73.3-73.5 
                 — 
                 99.4 
                 0.6 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 13 
                 124 
                 75.9-80.8 
                 73.5-73.6 
                 — 
                 99.3 
                 0.6 
                 — 
                 — 
               
               
                 14 
                 58 
                 81-96 
                 73.6-75     
                 — 
                 95 
                 3.7 
                 1 
                 — 
               
               
                 15 
                 17 
                  96-116 
                     75-76.2 
                 — 
                 89 
                 7.8 
                 2.7 
                 — 
               
               
                 16 
                 18 
                 116-130 
                 76.2-80.4 
                 — 
                 68 
                 17.1 
                 14.7 
                 — 
               
               
                 POT 
                 44 
                   
                   
                   
                 4 
                 5 
                 27 
                 47 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Combined fractions 8-13 (806 g total, yield 55%) were analyzed by NMR and shown to be a ˜99% pure mixture of compounds IIa and IIb in ratio 85:15 
     Compound IIa: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 3.98 (3H, s), 5.74 (1H, q, 8.4), ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −55.34 (3F, d, 8.1), −83.23 (3F, t, 1.5), −119.34 (2F, s) ppm 
     Compound IIb: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , δ, J, Hz): δ 3.92 (3H, s), 5.57 (1H, t, 13.3) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −69.42 (3F, s), −85.78 (3F, t, 2.5), −110.70 (2F, dt, 13.8, 2.5) ppm 
     Compound III: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 3.58 (3H, s), 5.62 (1H, dd, 28.1, 15.6) ppm 
       19 F (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −60.66 (3F, m, 9.9, 4.5), −80.36 (3F, d, 8.8), −118.90 (1F, tm, 28.1), −127.24 (1F, dd, 28.1, 15.3) ppm 
     Compound IV: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 2.84 (2H, m), 3.62 (3H, q, 1.2) ppm 
       19 F (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −73.41 (3F, d, 9.9), −83.86 (3F, t, 4.5), −124.71 (2F, A:B q, 286.0), −130.45 (1F, m, 9.1) ppm 
     Compound V: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 3.41 (6H, s), 5.48 (1H, d, 33.2) ppm 
       19 F (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −73.24 (3F, d, 9.3), −78.23 (3F, d, 6.8), −120.87 (1F, dm, J d =33.2) ppm 
     Example 2. Reaction of CF 3 CFHCFHC 2 F 5  with CF 3 CH 2 OH/KOH 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     A 500 mL 3-neck round bottomed flask was equipped with an addition funnel, thermocouple, and reflux condenser. Under a nitrogen blanket, 200 mL of 45 wt % KOH/water solution was added, along with 2 g of catalyst—tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB, phase transfer catalyst). This mixture was cooled in an ice bath down to ˜5° C. and 50 g (˜36 mL, 0.5 mol) of trifluoroethanol was added dropwise over 30 mins period at 10° C. Addition of trifluoroethanol was followed by slow addition of 125 g (0.5 mol) of I at 5-10° C. (˜30 min). The reaction mixture was slowly brought to ambient temperature (˜4 hrs). After stirring at ambient temperature for an additional ˜3 hrs, the reaction mixture was poured into 500 mL of water, fluorous layer separated, washed with water, dried over MgSO 4 , filtered and distilled using a Vigreux column. 87 g (yield 56%) of fraction b.p. 95-98° C. was isolated. The fraction contained isomers VIa and VIb in a ratio of 72:25, respectively and about 3% of other isomeric products. 
     Compound VIa: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 4.39 (2H, q, 7.7) 5.98 (1H, q, 7.6), ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): δ−57.32 (3F, dq, 7.5, 1.7), −75.19 (3F, t, 7.8), −83.16 (3F, d, 0.7), −118.83 (2F, s) ppm 
     Compound VIb: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): δ 5.80 (1H, t, 12.9), 4.36 (2H, q, 7.9) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −69.20 (3F, s), −75.1 (3F, t, 7.6), −85.54 (3F, t, 2.3), −112.23 (2, F dm, 12.9, 2.1) ppm 
     Example 3. Reaction of CF 3 CFHCFHC 2 F 5  with CH 3 CH 2 OH/KOH 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     Using the procedure described above in Example 1, 126 g (0.5 mol) of I, was added to a solution of 70 g (1.07 mol) of KOH in 400 ml of ethanol. The resulting crude product isolated after washing reaction mixture with water, drying, filtration and distillation yielded 94.4 g (yield 73%) of material with b.p. 85-89° C., which was found to be a mixture of VIIa and VIIb in a ratio 75:25, containing 3% isomeric material (NMR and GC/MS). 
     Compound VIIa: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 1.36 (3H, t, 7.4), 4.19 (2H, q, 7.4), 5.74 (1H, q, 8.0) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −56.34 (3F, dt, 8.1, 2.2), −83.18 (3F, t, 1.9), −119.23 (2F, s) ppm 
     Compound VIIb: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 1.35 (3H, t, 7.3), 4.14 (2H, q, 7.3), 5.74 (1H, t, 12.8) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −69.58 (3F, s), −85.81 (3F, t, 2.5), −111.27 (2F, dm, J d =13.8) ppm 
     Example 4. Reaction of CF 3 CFHCFHC 2 F 5  with (CH 3 ) 2 CHOH/KOH 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     Following the procedure described above in Example 1. Compound I (126 g, 0.5 mol) was added to a solution of 70 g (1.07 mol) of KOH in 400 ml of iso-propanol. The isolated crude product was distilled to yield 79 g (yield 61%) of a fraction with b.p. 98-99° C., containing a mixture of VIIa and VIIb in a ratio of ˜70:30, containing 3% of other isomeric material (NMR, GC/MS). 
     Compound VIIIa: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 1.31 (6H, d, 6.0), 4.63 (1H, quint., 6.0), 5.76 (1H, q, 8.0) ppm 
       19 F NMR ((CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −57.54 (3F, dt, 8.0, 2.1), −83.00 (3F, t, 1.9), −117.99 (2F, s) ppm 
     Compound VIIIb: 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 1.31 (6H, d, 6.0), 4.56 (1H, quint., 6.0), 5.56 (1H, t, 13.0) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −68.38 (3F, s), −85.57 (3F, t, 2.5), −111.55 (2F, dq, 13.0, 2.2) ppm 
     Example 5. Reaction of C 3 F 7 CH═CFC 2 F 5 /C 3 F 7 CF═CHC 2 F 5  with MeOH/KOH 
     
       
         
         
             
             
         
       
     
     Following the procedure described above in Example 1. The olefin (mixture of C 3 F 7 CH═CFC 2 F 5  and C 3 F 7 CF═CHC 2 F 5  in ratio ˜ 1:1) was added to a solution of KOH (20 g, 0.36 mol) in 300 ml of MeOH. After work up 105 g of crude product was isolated and distilled to yield 61.5 g (yield 46%), of a fraction with b.p. 107-110° C., containing a mixture of IXa, IXb, and isomeric material in ratio 45:40:15 (GC/MS, NMR) 
     Major isomer (content—45% in a mixture): 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 3.96 (3H, t, 1.2), 5.66 (1H, t, 14.5) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): −81.14 (3F, t, 9.5), −85.02 (3F, t, 1.9), −109.06 (2F, dm, J d =14.5), −116.39 (2F, q, 9.5), −127.05 (2F, s) ppm 
     Minor isomer (content—40% in a mixture): 
       1 H NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): 3.92 (3H, t, 1.2), 5.73 (1H, t, 14.0) ppm 
       19 F NMR (CDCl 3 , J, Hz): δ−80.78 (3F, t, 9.2), −83.55 (3F, m), −107.16 (2F, quint., 11.0), −118.55 (2F, s), −128.09 (2F, s) ppm 
     While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.