Process for production of 1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether (desflurane)

The present invention provides a continuous process for the production of 1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether (desflurane) which comprises feeding continuously optimum molar quantities of 1-chloro-2,2,2-trifluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether (CF3CHClOCHF2, Isoflurane) and anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, in a reactor in the vapor phase over a fluorination catalyst system comprising a metal pentahalide absorbed on a supporting substrate at a temperature ranging from 100° C. to 180° C., and separating 1,2,2,2-tetrafluoroethyl difluoromethyl ether (desflurane) continuously from the reactor. The process of the present invention enables continuous removal of desflurane product thereby minimizing co-production of byproducts and resulting in high conversion efficiency and yield of desflurane.