Lanthanum triflate

Lanthanum triflate (CAS 52093-26-2), systematically named lanthanum(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate (La(OTf)₃), is a rare earth Lewis acid catalyst used in pharmaceutical synthesis and polymer research.

Where is Lanthanum triflate used?

• Pharmaceutical and fine-chemical manufacturing: catalyst for Friedel–Crafts alkylations and acylations, aldol condensations, Diels–Alder cycloadditions, and esterification
• Plastics and polymers research: rare earth initiator and promoter in polymerisation studies, enabling investigation of stereoselective and ring-opening pathways
• R&D programmes targeting specialty polymers and functional materials
• Its water tolerance and thermal stability allow operation in aqueous or semi-aqueous media, reducing the need for rigorously anhydrous conditions.

Good to know: Hygroscopic and heat-sensitive; store under inert atmosphere in tightly sealed containers away from moisture. Danger: H302, H315; consult the current Safety Data Sheet and use appropriate PPE.

Commercial specifications

• Purity 97 % to 99.999 % (metals basis); trace-metals grade 99.995 %
• La₂O₃/TREO ≥ 99.9 % for high-purity lots
• Pack sizes 5 g to 1 kg; larger quantities on request