Hydrogen isotope exchange between fluoroform (CF3H) and water

Measurement of rate constants for NaOH-catalyzed CF3D/H2O isotopic exchange has been extended from 80 to 140 degrees C. Corresponding CF3H solubility data were obtained for water and 1.0 mol/L NaOH solution up to 120 degrees C. Above 120 degrees C the NaOH solution provides sufficient catalytic activity to be considered as a simple alternative to the use of aqueous DMSO systems containing NaOH for a CF3H redeuteration process. Tests done with both Ionac A-935 and regular types of anion exchange resin in the hydroxide ion form indicate that these resins, although initially quite effective for deuterium exchange catalysis, lose their reactivity when employed above 100 degrees C. The thermal instability of this type of supported -OH catalyst makes it unsuitable for use (as a substitute for NaOH) at elevated temperatures in packed towers in a commercial process