Description
Specifications Table
Product Name – N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide
Quantity/Pack Size – 5GR
Form – Liquid
Grade – 98%+
Application – Derivatization reagent for GC-MS, silylation of alcohols, amines, and carboxylic acids
Product Overview
N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA) is a highly reactive silylating agent widely recognized for its efficiency in derivatizing polar functional groups prior to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. This 98%+ pure reagent contains trimethylsilyl (TMS) groups that rapidly replace active hydrogens in compounds such as alcohols, amines, phenols, and carboxylic acids, converting them into volatile TMS derivatives with improved thermal stability and chromatographic behavior. The low moisture content (<0.1%) minimizes side reactions, ensuring clean baseline performance and reproducible results even with trace-level analytes. BSTFA’s compatibility with automated sample preparation systems makes it ideal for high-throughput laboratories, while its long shelf life (24 months when stored under inert gas) reduces replacement frequency. The reagent’s clear, colorless appearance allows for easy visual inspection of purity, and its controlled reactivity profile enables selective derivatization without over-silylation. For optimal performance, BSTFA should be stored at 2-8°C in tightly sealed amber glass bottles to prevent moisture absorption and light-induced degradation.
FAQs
1. What is the typical reaction time for BSTFA derivatization?
Most silylation reactions with BSTFA complete within 15-60 minutes at 60-70°C, though some sterically hindered compounds may require up to 2 hours or catalytic amounts of TMCS (trimethylchlorosilane).
2. Can this BSTFA grade be used for LC-MS applications?
BSTFA is specifically formulated for GC-MS applications. For LC-MS, consider alternative derivatization reagents like dansyl chloride or FMOC-Cl that are compatible with liquid chromatography conditions.
3. How does BSTFA compare to MSTFA for silylation?
BSTFA offers stronger silylating power than MSTFA (N-methyl-N-trimethylsilyltrifluoroacetamide) due to its two TMS groups, making it more effective for derivatizing hindered or less reactive functional groups, though MSTFA may be preferred for thermally labile compounds.
4. What precautions should be taken when handling BSTFA?
Always work in a fume hood as BSTFA releases toxic trifluoroacetic acid vapors upon hydrolysis. Use glass syringes (not plastic) for dispensing, and wear nitrile gloves to prevent skin contact with the corrosive liquid.
5. Is this BSTFA compatible with automated sample preparators?
Yes, this 98%+ grade is designed for automated systems. Its low viscosity (1.2 cSt at 25°C) and minimal particulate content prevent clogging in robotic liquid handlers and autosamplers.
