Trifluoroacetic acid

CAS: 76-05-1

Overview

Trifluoroacetic acid (CAS 76-05-1 ), commonly abbreviated as TFA, is a strong fluorinated organic acid used across pharmaceutical synthesis, analytical chemistry, and specialty chemical manufacturing.

It functions primarily as a reaction catalyst, ion-pairing reagent, and deprotection agent in complex chemical processes. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, TFA is the standard reagent for Boc-group removal.

This makes it indispensable to API production workflows. Analytical laboratories rely on TFA as an HPLC mobile phase additive, where it improves peak resolution and retention of basic compounds.

In reversed-phase chromatography, it ensures high precision. In textile and leather processing, it supports pH regulation and acts as a catalyst in dyeing and finishing baths where acid control is vital.

Precise control determines color uptake and substrate integrity. Specialty chemical producers also use TFA as a solvent and activating agent in the synthesis of fluorinated intermediates and agrochemicals.

Trifluoroacetic acid is supplied as a colorless liquid, typically at 99%+ purity for pharmaceutical and analytical applications. Reagent-grade and HPLC-grade specifications are the most commonly sourced.

HPLC-grade material is held to strict UV transparency and water content limits. Bulk quantities are available for industrial synthesis, with smaller packaging formats standard for laboratory procurement.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	-15.2 °C
Boiling Point	72.4 °C
Density	1.49 g/cm³ (liquid) @ Temp: 25 °C
Flash Point	None
Appearance	Colorless, fuming liquid; hygroscopic; pungent odor. Very soluble in water. Nonflammable.
Color	Colorless
Odor	Sharp, pungent odor
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	miscible
Vapor Pressure	97.5 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index	n 20/D 1.3(lit.)
pH	1 (10g/l, H2O)

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS06 Hazard Statements H290 May be corrosive to metals H301 Toxic if swallowed H302 Harmful if swallowed H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H331 Toxic if inhaled H332 Harmful if inhaled H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P234 Keep only in original packaging. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P390 Absorb spillage to prevent material damage. P405 Store locked up. P406 Store in a corrosion-resistant/… container with a resistant inner liner. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	29159080
UN Number	2699
ADR Class	8
Packing Group	I
Storage Class	8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)	2

Other Names

Industries

Food & Nutrition Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Textile, Leather & Paper