Antimony pentafluoride, with the chemical formula SbF5, is a chemical compound composed of antimony and fluorine atoms. It is a colorless, fuming liquid at room temperature and pressure. It has a strong and pungent odor and is highly reactive and corrosive.

Antimony pentafluoride is a powerful Lewis acid and a versatile fluorinating agent. Some key properties and uses of antimony pentafluoride include:

1. Lewis Acid: Similar to antimony pentachloride, SbF5 is a strong Lewis acid and can accept electron pairs from other molecules, making it a useful catalyst in certain chemical reactions.
2. Fluorination Reagent: Antimony pentafluoride is a potent fluorinating agent and can introduce fluorine atoms into organic molecules. It is commonly used in organic synthesis for selective fluorination reactions.
3. Catalyst: It is used as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, particularly in the preparation of certain fluorine-containing compounds.
4. Polymerization: Antimony pentafluoride is used as a polymerization initiator in the production of certain fluoropolymers.
5. Chemical Intermediate: It is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other antimony compounds and fluorine-containing chemicals.

Antimony pentafluoride is highly reactive and should be handled with extreme caution. It reacts violently with water and moisture, releasing hydrofluoric acid and antimony oxyfluorides, which are hazardous. Therefore, it is essential to take proper safety measures, including using appropriate personal protective equipment and working in a well-ventilated area when handling antimony pentafluoride.

Due to its potent fluorinating properties, antimony pentafluoride is used in specialized applications and industrial processes where fluorine chemistry is required. It should only be used by trained professionals in well-equipped laboratories with proper safety protocols in place.