Trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMS), also called triflic acid, CAS 1493-13-6, is a strong, colorless to pale organic sulfonic acid supplied for pharmaceutical, polymer, and electrolyte applications. Confirm the required grade and specification, then request a quotation with COA/TDS/SDS for bulk supply.
Trifluoromethanesulfonic Acid (TFMS) CAS 1493-13-6
- CAS: 1493-13-6
- Synonyms: Triflic acid, TFMS, Perfluoromethanesulfonic acid, Methanesulfonic acid trifluoro, Trifluoromethane sulfonic acid
- Einecs: 216-087-5
- Molecular Formula: CF3SO3H
- Grade: Industrial / Reagent Grade
- Package: 25kg/drum, 200kg/drum, or ISO Tank
Product Description
Trifluoromethanesulfonic Acid (TFMS) CAS 1493-13-6, also called triflic acid, is a strong organic sulfonic acid with the molecular formula CF3SO3H and EINECS 216-087-5.
Synonyms: Triflic acid; TFMS; Perfluoromethanesulfonic acid; Methanesulfonic acid trifluoro; Trifluoromethane sulfonic acid.
CAS: 1493-13-6.
Molecular formula: CF3SO3H.
It is supplied as a colorless to light yellow transparent liquid with an assay (titration) of not less than 99.5%.
Water content (KF) is not more than 0.05%, chloride not more than 0.002%, and sulfate not more than 0.005%.
The boiling point is about 162 °C, density about 1.696 g/cm³ at 20 °C, and APHA color not more than 30.
It is one of the strongest monoprotic organic acids, substantially stronger than concentrated sulfuric acid.
In pharmaceutical synthesis it catalyzes the preparation of nucleosides, steroids, and vitamins, and creates triflate leaving groups in coupling reactions.
In the polymer industry it acts as a cationic polymerization initiator for monomers such as tetrahydrofuran and silicones.
In fuel cells and electrolytes it is used for proton-exchange membranes and lithium-ion battery electrolytes.
In general organic chemistry it catalyzes Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation with high efficiency and low byproduct formation.
Store tightly sealed and dry in a cool, dry, well-ventilated, corrosion-resistant area away from heat, sparks, and open flames.
It is highly corrosive and hygroscopic; avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing, and use acid-resistant gloves, goggles, a face shield, and a corrosive-resistant coat or apron.
Every batch is tested by HPLC for purity verification and Karl Fischer titration for moisture control.
Standardized manufacturing processes maintain batch-to-batch consistency for critical industrial applications.
Confirm appearance, assay, water content, chloride, sulfate, boiling point, density, color, and grade as required.
The page is an RFQ entry point and does not state stock, price, MOQ, or fixed lead time.
For an RFQ, state the intended application, required grade, quantity, packaging, destination, and document needs.
FAQ - Technical & Supply Chain
-
Q:
What is Trifluoromethanesulfonic Acid CAS 1493-13-6?
A: CAS 1493-13-6 is trifluoromethanesulfonic acid, also called triflic acid or TFMSA, with the molecular formula CF3SO3H. It is a strong organic sulfonic acid supplied as a colorless to pale, fuming, hygroscopic liquid. -
Q:
Why is triflic acid classified as a superacid?
A: Triflic acid is one of the strongest monoprotic organic acids and is substantially stronger than concentrated sulfuric acid. Its very low pKa allows it to protonate weak bases and activate substrates that common mineral or sulfonic acids cannot effectively convert. -
Q:
What reactions use Trifluoromethanesulfonic Acid CAS 1493-13-6 as a catalyst?
A: It catalyzes esterification, acylation, alkylation, rearrangement, and polymerization reactions. It is used in pharmaceutical and fine chemical synthesis where strong acidity, thermal stability, and low-nucleophilicity triflate chemistry are required. -
Q:
Why is the triflate anion useful in organic synthesis?
A: The triflate anion, CF3SO3-, is weakly coordinating and has very low nucleophilicity, so it reduces unwanted chain termination or side reactions in cationic processes. Triflate esters also serve as highly reactive leaving groups in coupling and substitution reactions. -
Q:
How should triflic acid be stored and handled?
A: Keep triflic acid tightly sealed and dry, away from moisture and incompatible materials, because it is highly corrosive and hygroscopic. Use acid-resistant gloves, eye protection, face protection, and adequate ventilation when transferring or handling the product.
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