(R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid
(R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid (CAS 20445-31-2) is a chiral carboxylic acid with the formula C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H and a molecular weight of 234.17 g/mol. This highly pure compound, assaying ≥99.0% (T), serves as a critical building block in asymmetric synthesis and as a chiral resolving agent. Its defined stereochemistry makes it invaluable for creating enantiomerically pure compounds in pharmaceutical and chemical research and development.
- IUPAC
- (+)-MTPA,Mosher’s acid
- Synonyms
- (+)-MTPAMosher's acid

Chiral Resolving Agent
Utilised for the separation of enantiomers in racemic mixtures. Its chiral nature allows for differential interactions with the enantiomers of a target compound, facilitating their resolution.
Asymmetric Synthesis
Serves as a key chiral building block in the synthesis of complex molecules with specific stereochemistry. It enables the introduction of chirality into target structures.
Derivatization Reagent
Frequently employed as Mosher's acid for the derivatization of chiral alcohols and amines. The resulting diastereomeric esters or amides can be analysed by NMR or chromatography to determine enantiomeric excess.
| Molecular weight | 234.17 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H |
| Assay | ≥99.0% (T) |
| Grade | puriss. |
| Boiling point | 105-107 °C/1 mmHg(lit.) |
| Density | 1.344 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.473(lit.) |
| Melting point | 46-49 °C(lit.) |
| Optical activity | [α]20/D +72±2°, c = 2% in methanol |
| Optical purity | enantiomeric ratio: ~98.5 (GC) |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 113 °C / 235.4 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid used for?
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This compound is primarily used as a chiral resolving agent and in asymmetric synthesis. It is also known as Mosher's acid and is employed for derivatising chiral alcohols and amines to determine enantiomeric purity.
What are the CAS number and formula for (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid?
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The CAS number is 20445-31-2, and the chemical formula is C6H5C(OCH3)(CF3)CO2H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies this chemical with a grade of puriss. and an assay of ≥99.0% (T). This product is not represented as USP/BP/EP grade.
How should (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid be handled?
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Handling requires appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. The compound is classified with hazard statements H315 (causes skin irritation), H319 (causes serious eye irritation), and H335 (may cause respiratory irritation). Ensure adequate ventilation.
Is (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid a controlled substance?
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Based on the provided data, there is no indication that (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid is a controlled substance.
How is (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid packed, shipped, and exported?
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Tech Serve Solutions securely packs and exports fine chemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, and laboratory reagents globally, adhering to all necessary shipping regulations.
How can I request a sample or quote for (R)-(+)-α-Methoxy-α-trifluoromethylphenylacetic acid?
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Please contact our sales team via the website or directly via email/phone to request a sample or a detailed quotation.
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