Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide: A Promising Derivatization Agent for Analytical Chemistry
Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide: A Promising Derivatization Agent for Analytical Chemistry
Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) is a widely used derivatization agent in analytical chemistry. It is a colorless liquid with a strong pungent odor and a molecular formula of C8H18F3NO2Si2. BSTFA is a silylating reagent that reacts with polar functional groups such as hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amino groups to form volatile derivatives that are suitable for gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. INNO SPECIALTY CHEMICALS is a leading manufacturer and supplier of BSTFA from China, providing high-quality products for various applications.
BSTFA Synthesis and Properties
BSTFA can be synthesized by reacting trifluoroacetic anhydride with trimethylsilyl chloride in the presence of a base such as pyridine. The reaction produces BSTFA and hydrogen chloride as by-product. The yield of the reaction is typically high, and the product can be purified by distillation or column chromatography.
BSTFA is a highly reactive reagent that can react with a wide range of functional groups. It is soluble in most organic solvents such as dichloromethane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate. BSTFA is stable under normal storage conditions but can decompose in the presence of water or moisture to form silicic acid and hydrofluoric acid, which are corrosive and toxic. Therefore, BSTFA should be stored in a dry and cool place and handled with care.
BSTFA Applications in Analytical Chemistry
BSTFA is a versatile derivatization agent that can enhance the sensitivity, selectivity, and stability of analytical methods. It is commonly used in GC-MS analysis of small molecules such as fatty acids, amino acids, sugars, and steroids. BSTFA can derivatize these compounds to form trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives that have higher volatility and better chromatographic properties than the original compounds. The TMS derivatives also have characteristic mass spectra that allow for identification and quantification of the compounds.
BSTFA can also be used in liquid chromatography (LC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) analysis of polar compounds. In LC, BSTFA is often used as a mobile phase modifier or an additive to improve the separation and detection of polar compounds such as nucleotides, organic acids, and peptides. In CE, BSTFA can derivatize amino and carboxyl groups of proteins to form TMS derivatives that have higher solubility and stability than the native proteins.
BSTFA can also be used in sample preparation and extraction of analytes from complex matrices such as biological fluids, food, and environmental samples. BSTFA can derivatize the analytes in situ or after extraction to improve their recovery, stability, and selectivity. BSTFA can also be used in solid-phase microextraction (SPME) of volatile compounds such as flavors and fragrances. BSTFA can derivatize these compounds on the SPME fiber to enhance their extraction efficiency and sensitivity.
Conclusion
Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide is a valuable derivatization agent for analytical chemistry. It can improve the sensitivity, selectivity, and stability of analytical methods for various applications. BSTFA is a highly reactive and versatile reagent that can react with a wide range of functional groups. INNO SPECIALTY CHEMICALS is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of BSTFA from China, providing high-quality products and services for analytical chemistry.
Location：