Polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) like 1H-perfluorohexane (C6HF13) and perfluoro-2-methyl-2-pentene (C6F12) have industrial uses because they are nonreactive, thermally stable, and have surfactant properties. C6HF13 and C6F12 are greenhouse gases with potential long-term global warming impacts. Infrared absorption cross-sections can be used to quantify these climate impacts; however, such experimental measurements are limited. A single absorption cross-section measurement exists for C6HF13, and no measurements exist for C6F12.

This talk will cover the derivation of infrared absorption cross-sections from experimental data and the calculation of climate metrics like radiative forcing and global warming potential. We will also discuss the differences between the instantaneous, adjusted, and effective radiative forcing. Our experimental results will be compared to the theoretical results available in the literature.