Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid
Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (CAS 1493-13-6), with the formula CF3SO3H and a molecular weight of 150.08 g/mol, is a highly acidic and corrosive substance. It is a superacid, valued for its strong protonating ability and utility as a catalyst in various organic reactions. Its primary applications include serving as a potent deglycosylation agent and in chemical synthesis, particularly in electrophilic substitution reactions where a strong acid is required.
- IUPAC
- Triflic acid

Deglycosylation Agent
Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid is recognised for its efficacy as a deglycosylation agent. This property makes it valuable in carbohydrate chemistry and related fields for the selective removal of glycosidic bonds.
Catalysis in Organic Synthesis
As a strong Brønsted acid, triflic acid acts as an effective catalyst in a wide range of organic transformations. It promotes reactions such as alkylations, acylations, and polymerisations where highly acidic conditions are beneficial.
Electrophilic Substitution Reactions
This superacid is employed to facilitate electrophilic substitution reactions. Its strong acidity allows for the activation of substrates, enabling reactions that might not proceed with weaker acids.
| Molecular weight | 150.08 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | CF3SO3H |
| Assay | 98% |
| Boiling point | 162 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 1.696 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.327(lit.) |
| Concentration | 0.1 M CF3SO3H in acetic acid (0.1N) |
| Vapour pressure | 8 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Vapour density | 5.2 (vs air) |
| Application | Deglycosylation agent |


Hazard statements
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary statements
- 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 3265 8 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | C |
| Risk statements (R) | 21/22-35 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45 |
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 Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid primarily used for?
+
Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid is primarily used as a deglycosylation agent and as a strong acid catalyst in various organic synthesis applications, including electrophilic substitution reactions.
What is the CAS number and formula for Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid?
+
The CAS number is 1493-13-6 and the chemical formula is CF3SO3H.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid?
+
Tech Serve Solutions supplies Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid with an assay of 98%. We do not represent this product as meeting USP, BP, or EP pharmacopoeia standards.
How should Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid be handled safely?
+
Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid is highly corrosive and harmful if swallowed or inhaled. Appropriate personal protective equipment, including chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection (goggles and face shield), and respiratory protection, must be used. Handle only in well-ventilated areas. Refer to the safety data sheet for comprehensive handling instructions.
Does TSS export Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid?
+
Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid.
How can I request a quote or sample for Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid?
+
To request a quote or a sample, please contact our sales team through the website or via direct inquiry, providing your contact details and the product CAS number (1493-13-6).
▶ Related products

5-Sulfosalicylic acid dihydrate
HO3SC6H3-2-(OH)CO2H 2H2O
Acids & Bases
Calcium hydroxide
Ca(OH)2
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-12C2
12CH312CO2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-13C2
13CH313CO2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-13C2,d4
Acids & Bases

Acetic acid-17O2
CH3C17O2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-18O2
CH3C18O2H
Acids & Bases
Acetic acid-2,2,2-d3
2-d3
Acids & Bases▶ Explore more

3-Methyl-1,5-di-p-tolyl-1,4-pentazadiene
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1,5-pentanediol
Chemical Synthesis

3-Methyl-1-(2-methylphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-amine
C11H13N3
Chemical Synthesis
3-Methyl-1-(3′-sulfoamidophenyl)-5-pyrazolone
C10H11N3O3S
Chemical Synthesis