Trifluoroacetyl chloride (TFAC) is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It is easily hydrolysed, fumes in air and is easily soluble in organic solvents.
Chemical reactions and applications Trifluoroacetyl chloride is a typical intermediate in organic synthesis. Due to the electron-attracting effect of the CF3-group, the reactivity of the carbonyl group to nucleophilic reagents compared with the non-fluorinated analogue CH3 COCl is increased and the basicity of the carbonyl oxygen is reduced.
Delivery and handling
Trifluoroacetyl chloride is supplied in pressure cylinders. By hydrolysis, trifluoroacetyl chloride is converted to trifluoroacetic acid and hydrochloric acid. For this reason skin contact and inhalation of vapors have to be avoided. Affected parts of the body must be immediately rinsed with a lot of running water and diluted sodium carbonate solution. Care should be taken to ensure adequate ventilation of the working area.
Toxicological data TXDS: ihl-rat LCLo: 5,000 mg/m3 NDRC* –,7,43
Lit.:* NDRC: National Defense Research Committee, Office of Scientific Research and Development, Progress Report
TFAC) is a colorless gas with a pungent odor. It is easily hydrolysed, fumes in air and is easily soluble in organic solvents.
