HFE stands for hydrofluoroether. Originally developed by 3M, it is a complex organic cleaning solvent that was developed as an alternative to ozone-depleting solvents such as CFCs, HFCs, HCFCs, and PFCs. HFE has zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and low global-warming potential (GWP). At room temperature HFE's visual appearance is identical to water. Like water, it is colorless, odorless and tasteless. 3M Novec Engineered Fluids are based on HFE chemistry.