Trifluoromethyl benzyl sulfide is an aromatic–aliphatic thio-ether in which a benzyl group is linked to a strongly electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl thio moiety. The compound is air- and moisture-stable, freely miscible with common organic solvents (dichloromethane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, alcohols, ketones) and essentially insoluble in water. Commercial material is supplied ≥98 % pure.
Key physicochemical data:
Density: 1.21 g cm⁻³ (25 °C)
Refractive index n²⁰/D: 1.479
Boiling point: 185–187 °C / 760 mmHg
Flash point: 78 °C (closed cup)
Log P (octanol/water): 3.4 (predicted)
Typical uses:
Versatile building block for trifluoromethylthio-arenes and -heteroarenes via cross-coupling, radical or electrophilic trifluoromethylthiolation protocols.
Precursor for benzyl-sulfoxide/sulfone agro-chemicals, UV-absorbers and pharmaceutical intermediates.
Model substrate for mechanistic studies on highly fluorinated C–S bond activation and radical generation.
Quality specification (commercial grade):
Purity (GC): ≥98 %
Water content (KF): ≤0.2 %
Free thiol (as PhCH₂SH): ≤0.1 %
Residue on ignition: ≤0.1 %
Heavy metals: ≤20 ppm
Hazard statement:
Causes skin and eye irritation (H315 + H319). Harmful if swallowed (R22). Avoid inhalation of vapour; use gloves, goggles and adequate ventilation. Store in a cool, dry place away from oxidants. SDS available on request.
