2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol (CAS# 75-89-8), commonly known as TFE, trifluoroethyl alcohol, or 2,2,2-trifluoroethan-1-ol, is a primary fluorinated alcohol with the molecular formula C₂H₃F₃O and a molecular weight of 100.04 g/mol. Its molecular structure features a trifluoromethyl group (–CF₃) attached to a hydroxymethyl moiety (–CH₂OH), combining the hydrogen-bond-donating capacity of an alcohol with the strong electron-withdrawing character of the trifluoromethyl group. As a clear, colorless liquid with a boiling point of 73.6–77°C, a melting point of approximately −44°C, a flash point of 30°C, and a density of 1.38–1.39 g/mL at 20–25°C, TFE is miscible with water, ethers, ketones, alcohols, and chloroform, but is moisture-sensitive and should be stored under cool, dry conditions in tightly sealed containers. The compound is typically supplied in two primary purity grades: Industrial Grade (≥99.0%) for general synthesis and solvent applications, and Medical Grade (≥99.5% or ≥99.9%) for pharmaceutical manufacturing and biopharmaceutical research.
TFE occupies a functionally distinct middle ground within the fluoroalcohol solvent class, bridging the gap between ethanol and hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP). Its tunable hydrogen-bond donation (pKa 12.4, α 1.36) and moderate Brønsted acidity enable selective stabilization of reactive intermediates while maintaining sufficient solvent polarity for diverse organic and biomolecular transformations. This unique balance has made TFE an indispensable tool in peptide-based drug design, protein folding studies, fluorinated pharmaceutical synthesis, inhalation anesthetic production, and advanced materials chemistry. Based on its chemical characteristics and industrial significance, this article systematically analyzes the key properties, core application areas, global market structure, regulatory landscape, and future outlook of this strategically important fluorinated alcohol.
Core Application Fields and Demand
Market demand for 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (CAS# 75-89-8) is concentrated in four primary sectors: pharmaceutical synthesis and peptide research (approximately 35–40% of global consumption), inhalation anesthetic production (approximately 20–25%), agrochemical and specialty chemical synthesis (approximately 20–25%), and electronic chemicals, precision cleaning, and materials science (approximately 15–20%). Its unique solvent properties and trifluoroethylating capability serve as the core drivers of sustained demand growth across all sectors.
In pharmaceutical synthesis and peptide research, TFE is a critical solvent and intermediate. It is used in the manufacture of certain pharmaceuticals and drug substances, including the inhalation anesthetic fluroxene (2,2,2-trifluoro-1-vinyloxyethane), which is the vinyl ether of trifluoroethanol. TFE serves as a co-solvent that can mimic membrane environments, which is crucial for developing peptide-based therapeutics and understanding disease mechanisms. In peptide-based drug design, TFE is used to study the intrinsic helical propensity of peptide sequences, which is essential for designing peptides that can adopt specific conformations to interact with biological targets. TFE can also be used to populate and study folding intermediates that may be transient and difficult to observe in purely aqueous solutions. Its ability to solubilize a wide range of molecules makes it a useful solvent in pharmaceutical formulations. The global market for fluorine-containing pharmaceuticals is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5–7% over the next five years, creating substantial pull for high-purity fluorinated solvents like TFE.
In inhalation anesthetic production, TFE is a key intermediate for the synthesis of modern volatile anesthetics including isoflurane, desflurane, and sevoflurane. It can be used as an import agent of trifluoroethyl and trifluoroacetic ethoxycarbonyl agents for synthetic narcotics fluoride ether (Fluroxene), isoflurane, and desflurane, as well as central nervous system stimulants fluticasone Seoul and proton pump inhibitor lansoprazole. The compound also serves as a precursor for anti-arrhythmic drugs (flecainide), analgesics, benzodiazepines (quazepam), and difficulty urinating therapeutic drugs.
In agrochemical and specialty chemical synthesis, TFE is used as an intermediate for herbicides such as triflusulfuron-methyl and other crop protection agents. It is also employed as a chemical reagent and in polymerizations. As a source of the trifluoromethyl group, TFE is employed in several organic reactions, including the Still-Gennari modification of the Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reaction. TFE is a solvent of choice for hydrogen peroxide-mediated oxidations of sulfides and for uncatalyzed epoxidations of alkenes.
In electronic chemicals and precision cleaning, TFE is used as a cleaning solvent and eluent in HPLC separations, as well as a working fluid in Rankine heat cycle systems. It is also employed as an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The compound’s ability to act as a protein denaturant and stabilize peptide structures makes it valuable in structural biology and bioconjugation workflows.
Major Market Participants
The global supply system for 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (CAS# 75-89-8) features a pattern of “integrated fluorochemical manufacturers, multinational specialty chemical corporations, and Chinese producers serving distinct market segments.” The global 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol market was valued at USD 72.25 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 134 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period 2026–2032. The medical-grade TFE market was valued at USD 32.5 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 58.9 million by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.7%. The high-purity TFE market is predicted to grow from USD 179 million in 2025 to USD 218 million in 2031.
In the global industrial and large-scale production segment, key international players include Solvay, Tosoh Corporation, and Halocarbon Life Sciences, which lead production of medical-grade TFE with a consolidated competitive landscape. These companies supply TFE meeting stringent GMP requirements for pharmaceutical manufacturing, with low levels of impurities to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Tosoh specifies TFE with a molecular weight of 100.04, boiling point of 73.6°C, melting point of approximately −45°C, flash point of 30°C, and density of approximately 1.391 g/cm³ at 20°C.
In the industrial and large-scale production segment, Chinese manufacturers have emerged as significant players in the global supply chain. XinChem is a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-purity 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol from China, offering the compound with stringent quality standards for use in pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical production, and specialty chemical applications. XinChem provides TFE in both industrial grade (≥99.0%) and high-purity grade (≥99.9%) with comprehensive quality documentation and flexible packaging options. Other Chinese suppliers include Changzhou Jiayuan Chemical Co., Ltd., offering TFE in 250 kg steel drums and plastic drums with lead times of 14–30 days. Dayang Chem (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd. is another leading manufacturer and supplier of TFE, offering the compound with 99.0% minimum assay and providing full documentation including SDS and COA. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options—from laboratory quantities to 250 kg drums and ISO tanks—serving both domestic and export markets with competitive pricing.
Regional Market Dynamics
The global 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol market exhibits distinct regional characteristics, with production concentrated in Asia-Pacific (particularly China and Japan) and consumption distributed across North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region, aligned with the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and electronics industries in these regions. The TFEA value chain demonstrates a typical structure of upstream fluorochemical integration, midstream specialty chemical manufacturing, and downstream high-value applications.
The Asia-Pacific region is the dominant force in the global TFE market, with China and Japan hosting major manufacturers and suppliers including XinChem. The region’s competitive advantages include lower production costs, established chemical infrastructure, and proximity to rapidly growing pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and electronics industries. The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, is anticipated to witness the fastest growth rate owing to increasing manufacturing capabilities and healthcare investment. Chinese suppliers offer the compound at various purity grades and packaging options, serving both domestic and export markets. The growing pharmaceutical R&D, agrochemical, and electronic chemicals sectors in China, India, Japan, and South Korea continue to drive regional consumption growth.
North America remains a key market for high-purity and medical-grade TFE, driven by demand from the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology companies, and inhalation anesthetic manufacturers. The U.S. market was estimated at USD 11.8 million in 2025 and holds a dominant share due to its advanced pharmaceutical sector. The United States hosts numerous research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and contract research organizations that require high-quality fluorinated solvents for drug discovery, peptide synthesis, and anesthetic production. The region’s well-established regulatory framework, including OSHA and FDA requirements, and emphasis on product quality support demand for high-grade TFE.
Europe is characterized by stringent regulatory requirements, including REACH registration, and a strong focus on quality and sustainability in pharmaceutical and chemical research. European pharmaceutical companies, agrochemical developers, and research institutions demand high-purity TFE with comprehensive documentation. The region’s advanced pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors support steady demand for medical-grade TFE.
Japan represents a specialized market where TFE is supplied by Tosoh Corporation and other distributors for pharmaceutical research, inhalation anesthetic production, and electronic chemicals applications.
Regulatory and Safety Considerations
As a flammable fluorinated alcohol with significant industrial and pharmaceutical applications, 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (CAS# 75-89-8) is subject to regulatory oversight in major global economies. Compliance with relevant regulations is essential for market access and trade.
GHS classification and handling: 2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol is classified with the signal word ”Danger” . Hazard statements include H226 (Flammable liquid and vapour), H318 (Causes serious eye damage), H360 (May damage fertility or the unborn child), and H373 (May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure if inhaled). The compound is classified as a Category 3 flammable liquid, Category 1 acute oral toxicity, Category 1 acute inhalation toxicity (vapors), Category 1 serious eye damage, Category 1B reproductive toxicity, and Category 2 specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure, target organ: blood). Precautionary statements include P201 (Obtain special instructions before use), P210 (Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces; no smoking), P260 (Do not breathe mist or vapors), P280 (Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection, and face protection), P303+P361+P353 (IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing; rinse skin with water), P305+P351+P338+P310 (IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing; immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor), and P308+P313 (IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention).
Storage and stability: TFE should be stored in a well-ventilated place and kept cool (P403+P235). The compound is moisture-sensitive and should be stored under cool, dry conditions in tightly sealed containers, protected from heat, sparks, and open flames.
Regulatory compliance: In the European Union, TFE must comply with REACH registration requirements (EINECS 200-913-6) and CLP classification under Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 for import and use. Manufacturers and suppliers must provide comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and maintain appropriate documentation. In the United States, TFE is regulated under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200, 2024) and is considered hazardous according to US OSHA standards. The compound is intended for research and development use only and is not approved for food, drug, pesticide, or biocidal product use. For pharmaceutical applications, manufacturers must comply with relevant FDA regulations and GMP requirements.
Transport information: 2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol is classified under UN 1986 (Alcohols, flammable, toxic, n.o.s.), Hazard Class 3/6.1, Packing Group III. Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required for international shipping in compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) and IATA/IMDG standards for hazardous materials.
Environmental considerations: As a fluorinated compound, TFE requires responsible handling and disposal. The compound is miscible with water and may persist in the environment, necessitating appropriate waste management protocols. The development of greener synthesis methods and recovery processes is an ongoing focus in the industry.
Future Outlook
The market outlook for 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol is highly positive, supported by several key growth drivers across its major application segments. The global market is projected to grow from USD 72.25 million in 2025 to USD 134 million by 2032, registering a CAGR of 7.2%. The medical-grade TFE market is projected to reach USD 58.9 million by 2034 at a CAGR of 6.7%. The high-purity TFE market is predicted to grow from USD 179 million in 2025 to USD 218 million in 2031.
Key growth drivers include:
- Expansion of peptide therapeutics market: The rapidly growing pipeline of peptide-based therapeutics—including GLP-1 receptor agonists, peptide antibiotics, and peptide-drug conjugates—drives demand for high-purity TFE as a critical solvent for peptide synthesis, folding studies, and formulation development. The global market for fluorine-containing pharmaceuticals is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5–7% over the next five years.
- Growth in inhalation anesthetic production: The continued global demand for modern volatile anesthetics including isoflurane, desflurane, and sevoflurane supports steady consumption of TFE as a key intermediate.
- Increasing demand for medical-grade TFE in biopharmaceutical research: As investment in biologics and personalized medicine continues to rise, the requirement for high-purity TFE in R&D laboratories is expected to grow significantly. TFE’s role in studying protein folding and stability makes it indispensable for developing peptide-based therapeutics and understanding disease mechanisms.
- Expansion of agrochemical development: The growing global demand for novel herbicides and crop protection agents drives consumption of TFE as a precursor for triflusulfuron-methyl and other agrochemical actives.
- Growth in electronic chemicals and precision cleaning: The expanding electronics industry and the phase-out of CFCs create new opportunities for TFE as an environmentally friendly cleaning solvent and eluent in HPLC separations.
- Increasing focus on fluorinated functional materials: The growing use of TFE as a source of the trifluoromethyl group in organic synthesis, including the Still-Gennari modification of HWE reactions, supports demand from the specialty chemicals and materials science sectors.
Challenges and considerations:
- High production costs: The synthesis of medical-grade TFE involves complex purification processes to achieve required high purity levels (often exceeding 99.9%), which are energy-intensive and require specialized equipment, leading to significantly higher production costs compared to industrial-grade TFE.
- Hazardous material handling: TFE’s classification as flammable (H226), acutely toxic (H301, H331), and reproductive toxicant (H360) requires specialized handling, packaging, and shipping procedures that may increase costs.
- Reproductive toxicity concerns: The compound’s classification as Category 1B reproductive toxicity (H360) may lead to increased regulatory scrutiny and restrictions in certain applications.
- Moisture sensitivity: TFE requires storage under moisture-free conditions, which may increase handling and logistics costs.
- Regulatory compliance: Increasingly stringent chemical and pharmaceutical regulations may require ongoing investment in quality systems and documentation.
To succeed in this evolving market landscape, suppliers must focus on product quality (particularly purity, moisture content, and batch-to-batch consistency), supply chain reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsive customer service. Companies that can offer high-purity products in multiple grades, flexible packaging options, and technical support for peptide synthesis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agrochemical production, and electronic chemicals applications will be well-positioned to capture growing demand.
Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem)
As a world-leading supplier of organic chemicals and fluorinated building blocks, Shanghai XinChem Co., Ltd. (XinChem) is dedicated to meeting the innovative needs of the pharmaceutical, agrochemical, electronic chemicals, and specialty chemical industries. Leveraging extensive experience and advanced manufacturing capabilities, XinChem provides high-quality 2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol (TFE, CAS# 75-89-8) to customers worldwide. As a trusted manufacturer and supplier based in China, XinChem combines competitive pricing, reliable supply, and exceptional service to establish itself as a preferred partner for research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and industrial manufacturers seeking this versatile fluoroalcohol solvent and trifluoroethylating agent.
1. Technical Advantages
Advanced Synthesis and Purification Processes
XinChem utilizes state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and rigorous quality control measures to ensure the purity, consistency, and safety of its 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol products. The production process incorporates advanced fluorination and purification technologies, enabling the delivery of products with purity ≥99.0% (Industrial Grade) and ≥99.5% to ≥99.9% (Medical Grade) to meet diverse application requirements. Strict process control ensures consistent product quality, minimal moisture content, low acidity, and batch-to-batch reproducibility, providing customers with reliable performance in peptide synthesis, pharmaceutical manufacturing, agrochemical production, and electronic chemicals applications.
Full-Chain Quality Control
The production process strictly adheres to international quality standards, with comprehensive quality control covering raw material sourcing, in-process monitoring, and finished product testing. Each batch is accompanied by a detailed Certificate of Analysis (COA) documenting physical and chemical properties, purity data (GC), moisture content (Karl Fischer), acidity, and impurity profiles. This commitment to quality ensures that XinChem’s 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol meets the stringent requirements of pharmaceutical R&D, peptide synthesis, inhalation anesthetic production, and specialty chemical applications.
2. Product Advantages
High Purity and Consistent Quality
XinChem offers 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol in multiple grades: Industrial Grade (≥99.0%) for general synthesis and solvent applications, and Medical Grade (≥99.5% to ≥99.9%) for pharmaceutical manufacturing and biopharmaceutical research. The product’s high purity and consistent quality minimize the risk of unwanted side reactions and impurities, making it suitable for demanding applications in drug discovery, peptide therapeutics, and inhalation anesthetic production.
Comprehensive Specifications
Key specifications include:
- Molecular Formula: C₂H₃F₃O
- Molecular Weight: 100.04 g/mol
- CAS Number: 75-89-8
- EINECS Number: 200-913-6
- Synonyms: TFE, Trifluoroethyl alcohol, 2,2,2-Trifluoroethan-1-ol
- Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
- Purity: ≥99.0% (Industrial) / ≥99.5% to ≥99.9% (Medical Grade)
- Boiling Point: 73.6–77°C
- Melting Point: −43.5 to −44°C
- Flash Point: 30°C
- Density: 1.38–1.39 g/mL at 20–25°C
- Solubility: Miscible with water, ethers, ketones, alcohols, and chloroform
- Storage: Cool, dry conditions in tightly sealed containers, protected from moisture
Flexible Packaging Solutions
XinChem provides a range of packaging options to accommodate diverse customer needs, from laboratory-scale quantities (100 mL, 250 mL, 1 L) to industrial-scale packaging (25 kg, 250 kg steel drums, 250 kg plastic drums) and bulk shipments (ISO tanks). Customized packaging solutions are available upon request, ensuring safe handling, storage, and transportation with appropriate moisture protection and compliance with hazardous material regulations (UN 1986, Class 3/6.1, PG III).
3. Application Fields
As a versatile fluoroalcohol solvent and trifluoroethylating agent, 2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol (CAS# 75-89-8) exhibits wide application value across multiple industries:
Pharmaceutical Synthesis and Peptide Research:
- Critical solvent for peptide synthesis and peptide-based drug design
- Co-solvent for studying protein folding and stability
- Solvent for NMR-based protein folding studies
- Intermediate for fluorinated pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
- Solvent in pharmaceutical formulations and bioconjugation workflows
Inhalation Anesthetic Production:
- Key intermediate for isoflurane, desflurane, and sevoflurane
- Precursor for fluroxene (2,2,2-trifluoro-1-vinyloxyethane)
- Intermediate for CNS stimulants, proton pump inhibitors, anti-arrhythmic drugs, analgesics, and benzodiazepines
Agrochemical and Specialty Chemical Synthesis:
- Intermediate for herbicides such as triflusulfuron-methyl
- Source of the trifluoromethyl group in organic reactions
- Solvent for hydrogen peroxide-mediated oxidations of sulfides
- Reagent for Still-Gennari modification of Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reaction
- Solvent for uncatalyzed epoxidations of alkenes
Electronic Chemicals and Precision Cleaning:
- Cleaning solvent for electronic components
- Eluent in HPLC separations
- Working fluid in Rankine heat cycle systems
- Environmentally friendly alternative to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
Materials Science and Polymer Chemistry:
- Solvent for polymerizations
- Precursor for fluorinated functional materials
- Component in specialty coatings and advanced materials
4. Service Support
Technical Expertise and Customized Solutions
XinChem’s team of experienced chemists and application engineers provides full technical support throughout the customer journey—from product selection and specification development to application guidance and troubleshooting. Whether customers require optimization of peptide synthesis protocols, guidance on solvent selection for specific reactions, or assistance with regulatory documentation, XinChem’s technical experts are ready to help. Custom synthesis and contract manufacturing with flexible scaling from R&D to commercial quantities are available upon request.
Global Logistics and Reliable Supply
With established supply chains serving markets across Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and beyond, XinChem ensures timely delivery and consistent product availability. The company’s logistics team manages all aspects of international shipping, including compliance with dangerous goods transport regulations (UN 1986, Class 3/6.1, PG III), customs clearance, and documentation, with appropriate moisture protection and temperature control for product stability.
Regulatory Support
XinChem provides comprehensive documentation to support regulatory compliance, including Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other required certificates. The company stays current with evolving regulatory requirements in major markets, including REACH, TSCA, OSHA, and other regional regulations, helping customers navigate the complexities of global trade.
5. Reasons to Choose XinChem
- Professionalism: Extensive experience and deep expertise in fluorinated chemical synthesis and supply.
- Quality: Rigorous quality control, high purity (≥99.0% to ≥99.9%), and adherence to international standards.
- Reliability: Stable supply, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
- Flexibility: Customized solutions to meet diverse customer needs, including multiple grades and packaging options.
- Service: Responsive technical support and comprehensive documentation.
Contact us today to start your partnership with XinChem!
Website: www.xinchem.com
Email: sales1@xinchem.com
WhatsApp: +86 18049800532
Post time: Sep-13-2026