Abstract: A process for the preparation of highly purified optical isomers of desflurane, i.e. 2-(difluoromethoxy)-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, is described wherein the highly purified opposite optical isomer of iso-flurane is reacted with bromine trifluoride in the cold, preferably in the presence of a solvent. A preferred solvent is bromine. The highly purified positive isomer of desflurane is advantageous over the negative isomer or the racemate.

Abstract: An improved preparation of desflurane, 1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether utilizing hexafluoropropene epoxide as a starting material. Hexafluoropropene epoxide is advantageous in that it is relatively inexpensive and is environmentally acceptable.

Abstract: Fluoromethyl 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propyl ether is prepared by reacting bromine trifluoride and methyl 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexachloro-2-propyl ether or chloromethyl 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexachloro-2-propyl ether. The mixed fluorochloro ether intermediates having the formula of ##STR1## (wherein x+y=3, a+b=3, and Z=H Cl, or F) are converted to fluoromethyl 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-2-propyl ether by reactions with bromine trifluoride.

Abstract: A continuous process is disclosed for preparing 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol from 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, preferably 2-chloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane. In the process, 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, a carboxylic acid salt and an hydroxylated compound such as water are continuously provided to a reaction mixture in a reactor. The 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane, the carboxylic acid salt and the hydroxylated compound are reacted therein at a reaction pressure at or above the autogenously developed pressure and at a reaction temperature of from about 223.degree. C. to about the critical temperature of the hydroxylated compound. At least a portion of the reaction product mixture is continuously withdrawn from the reactor and unreacted 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane is separated therefrom. The separated unreacted 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane is recycled as part of the 2-halo-1,1,1-trifluoroethane provided to the reaction mixture. The 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol is recovered from the reaction product mixture.