Trifluoroacetic acid
Trifluoroacetic acid (CAS 76-05-1), with the molecular formula CF3COOH and a molecular weight of 114.02 g/mol, is a strong, colourless organic acid. It is widely recognised for its excellent solvent properties and its role as a catalyst in organic synthesis. Trifluoroacetic acid is also frequently employed as an eluent additive in liquid chromatography, particularly for mass spectrometry applications, and as a derivatising agent in gas chromatography.
- IUPAC
- TFA
- Synonyms
- TFATrifluoroacetic acid, trifluoro-acetic acidTrifluoroethanoic acidPerfluoroacetic acid
Organic Synthesis Reagent
As a potent acid catalyst, trifluoroacetic acid facilitates various organic reactions, including esterifications, acylations, and deprotections. Its strong electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl group enhances its acidity, making it effective in promoting reactions where milder acids are insufficient.
Chromatography Mobile Phase Additive
Trifluoroacetic acid is extensively used as an ion-pairing agent and mobile phase modifier in High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). It improves the separation of peptides and proteins by ion suppression and provides volatility for MS detection.
Analytical Reagent
Its high purity and suitability for analytical methods make it valuable in sequence analysis tests. The defined concentration and assay ensure reliable performance in critical analytical procedures.
Solvent
Trifluoroacetic acid serves as a polar solvent for a variety of organic compounds, including polymers and peptides, that may not be soluble in more common organic solvents. Its properties are particularly useful in peptide synthesis and analysis.
| Molecular weight | 114.02 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CF3COOH |
| Assay | ≥99.5% (T) |
| Grade | eluent additive for LC-MS |
| Boiling point | 72.4 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.489 g/mL at 20 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.3(lit.) |
| Melting point | −15.4 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | ~25% in H2O |
| Vapour pressure | 97.5 mmHg (20 °C) |
| Vapour density | 3.9 (vs air) |
| Storage temperature | −20°C |
| Impurities tested | ≤0.05% water |
| Suitability | in accordance for sequence analysis test |
Hazard statements
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H332Harmful if inhaled
- H412Harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
- P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor
| Protective equipment | Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, Goggles, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2699 8 / PGI |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 20-35-52/53 |
| Safety statements (S) | 9-26-27-28-45-61 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| λ | in H2O, 1 cm path |
|---|
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 Trifluoroacetic Acid used for?
+
Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is primarily used as a strong acid catalyst in organic synthesis, as a mobile phase additive in LC-MS and HPLC for peptide and protein analysis, and as a solvent for various organic compounds.
What are the CAS number and chemical formula for Trifluoroacetic Acid?
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The CAS number for Trifluoroacetic Acid is 76-05-1, and its linear formula is CF3COOH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Trifluoroacetic Acid with an assay of ≥99.5% (T) and a grade specified as an eluent additive for LC-MS. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade unless explicitly stated in the product specifications.
How should Trifluoroacetic Acid be handled safely?
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Trifluoroacetic Acid is a corrosive substance (H314) and harmful if inhaled (H332), with long-lasting harmful effects on aquatic life (H412). Handle with extreme care, wearing full protective equipment including face shields, chemical-resistant gloves, and appropriate respiratory protection in a well-ventilated area. Avoid release into the environment.
Is Trifluoroacetic Acid a controlled substance?
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Based on the provided data, Trifluoroacetic Acid is not listed as a controlled substance.
How is Trifluoroacetic Acid packed and shipped?
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Trifluoroacetic Acid is stored at -20°C. Specific packing and shipping details for export can be provided upon request.
How can I request a sample or quote for Trifluoroacetic Acid?
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To request a sample or a quote for Trifluoroacetic Acid, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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