What Is Trifluoroacetic Acid?
Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) is a colorless liquid at room temperature and a type of carboxylic acid, with the chemical formula CF3COOH. It is commonly abbreviated as TFA and is known as one of the strongest organic acids, second only to trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFSA).
First synthesized in 1922, TFA has become an important chemical in organic chemistry, with a global demand estimated at several hundred tons per year due to its distinctive properties.
Uses of Trifluoroacetic Acid
Trifluoroacetic acid is widely used in organic synthesis both as a raw material and as a preparation solution. In the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries, it is highly valued, particularly as an intermediate for herbicides. It also serves as a protecting group for amino acids in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Additionally, TFA is used in the production of anhydrous trifluoroacetic acid and trifluoroacetic acid esters.
In other industrial applications, TFA acts as an acid catalyst for various addition, esterification, and condensation reactions. It is also utilized in the manufacture of electronic materials, and as a solvent due to its unique chemical properties.