CFC's or chlorofluorocarbons are fully halogenated paraffin hydrocarbons that contain only carbon, chlorine, and fluorine. They are made as a volatile derivative of methane, ethane, and propane, also known by the Dupont brand name Freon. CFC's are used in a variety of applications because of their low toxicity, reactivity, and flammability.
Every permutation of fluorine, chlorine, and hydrogen-based methane and ethane have been examined, and most have been commercialized. Uses include refrigerants, blowing agents, propellants in medicinal applications and degreasing solvents. Their decreased volatility is attributed to the molecular polarity induced by the halides, which induces intermolecular interactions.