1265. Bismuth Fluoride

Nomenclature

CAS number: 7787-61-3
Bismuth trifluoride.
BiF3; mol wt 265.98.
Bi 78.57%, F 21.43%.

Description and references

Prepd by dissolving bismuth oxide or hydroxide in aqueous HF. May also be prepd by reduction of BiF5 with CO2 in very dil H2 at 80-150° in a Pt tube: Muir et al., J. Chem. Soc. 39, 33 (1881); v. Wartenberg, Z. Anorg. Allg. Chem. 244, 344 (1940); Aurivillius, Acta Chem. Scand. 9, 1206 (1955). Review: Kemmitt, Sharp, Adv. Fluorine Chem. 4, 213 (1965).

Properties

White to gray dimorphic crystals. d 8.3. mp 725-730°. Volatilizes at higher temps slowly and without decompn. Practically insol in water. Sol in concd HF with the formation of complexes.

Use

In the prepn of bismuth pentafluoride, q.v.