Trifluoromethanesulfonic anhydride

Trifluoromethanesulfonic anhydride (CAS 358-23-6), also known as triflic anhydride or Tf₂O, is a powerful electrophilic triflating agent for synthetic chemistry.

Where is Trifluoromethanesulfonic anhydride used?

• Pharmaceutical synthesis: converts phenols and enols into vinyl triflates, key intermediates in palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling for complex APIs
• Polymer chemistry: initiates cationic polymerization of cyclic monomers, enabling precise molecular weight control in specialty polymers
• Carbohydrate-based drug and excipient manufacturing: activating agent in the synthesis of glycosyl triflates
• Fine chemical production: generates highly reactive triflate intermediates for selective C–O and C–N bond formation where conventional sulfonating agents fail
• It activates hydroxyl groups and other nucleophilic sites for downstream coupling and functionalization steps.

Good to know: Reacts with atmospheric moisture; typically supplied in sealed, moisture-protected packaging.

Commercial specifications

• Purity commonly 99% or above, confirmed by GC or titration
• Research quantities through to multi-kilogram lots