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3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline: Properties and Uses

Date: 2026-09-18

Key Takeaways

  • 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is a fluorinated aromatic amine identified by CAS 328-74-5 and molecular formula C₈H₅F₆N.
  • Its two trifluoromethyl groups and primary amine group make it a useful building block for organic synthesis and chemical research.
  • Commonly documented uses include the synthesis of Schiff bases, substituted anilines, hydroamination products, and thiourea-based organocatalysts.
  • When purchasing the compound, purity, product identity, storage requirements, documentation, and batch consistency are important considerations.

What Is 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline?

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is a fluorinated aromatic amine used as a chemical building block and synthetic intermediate. The molecule contains an aniline amino group attached to a benzene ring and two trifluoromethyl (-CF₃) groups positioned at the 3 and 5 positions.

skeletal formula of 3,5‑bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline
skeletal formula of 3,5‑bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline

The combination of an aromatic amine and electron-withdrawing trifluoromethyl substituents gives the compound a useful structure for further chemical modification. In research and development, it can serve as a starting material for preparing more complex fluorinated molecules.

The compound is also known by identifiers including CAS 328-74-5, MDL MFCD00000394, and the molecular formula C₈H₅F₆N. Its molecular weight is 229.125 g/mol.

Chemical Identity

PropertyValue
Chemical name3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline
CAS Number328-74-5
MDL NumberMFCD00000394
Molecular FormulaC₈H₅F₆N
Molecular Weight229.125 g/mol
Functional groupsAromatic amine, trifluoromethyl groups
Purity98%

The structure can also be represented by the SMILES notation Nc1cc(cc(c1)C(F)(F)F)C(F)(F)F.

Basic Physical Properties

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is generally described as a liquid with a clear to light yellow or yellow-brown appearance. Its boiling point is approximately 85°C at 15 mmHg, its density is approximately 1.467 g/mL at 25°C, and its refractive index is n20/D 1.434. It is not miscible with water.

Physical-property values can vary in presentation depending on the test method and source, so buyers should use the supplier’s current technical documentation and batch-specific COA when a defined specification is required.

Chemical Properties of 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline

Molecular Structure and Functional Groups

The molecule contains two chemically significant structural features: a primary aromatic amine and two trifluoromethyl groups.

The amine group provides a reactive functional site that can participate in transformations such as condensation and the preparation of nitrogen-containing derivatives. The two -CF₃ groups are strongly electron-withdrawing substituents that influence the electronic character of the aromatic ring.

This combination is particularly useful when researchers need a fluorinated aniline building block that can be incorporated into a larger molecular structure.

The compound’s structure has been used in the preparation of several fluorinated derivatives and nitrogen-containing compounds, including Schiff bases and thiourea-based organocatalysts.

Purity and Quality Parameters

Purity is one of the first parameters to check when sourcing 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline for synthesis. Commercial products are available at different assay levels; The appropriate purity level depends on the intended use. Routine exploratory research may have different requirements from a multistep synthesis where impurities could affect downstream reactions or analytical results.

For reproducible laboratory work, purity should therefore be evaluated together with:

  • Batch or lot information
  • Certificate of Analysis (COA)
  • Relevant technical specifications
  • Appearance and physical condition
  • Required storage conditions
  • Documentation for handling and transport

Uses of 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is primarily valuable as a synthetic building block and intermediate. Its documented uses are closely related to the reactivity of its amine group and the fluorinated aromatic structure.

Organic Synthesis

The compound can be incorporated into more complex molecules through reactions involving its amino functionality. Published supplier information documents its use in the synthesis of substituted anilines and Schiff bases, among other compounds.

This makes it useful for researchers developing fluorinated aromatic compounds where the 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl group is required in the target structure.

Its value in synthesis also comes from the fact that the starting structure is relatively well-defined and can be carried into subsequent functionalization steps.

Organocatalyst and Catalyst Research

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline has been used in the preparation of N,N′-bis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]thiourea, an organocatalyst. Research literature also describes the use of the compound in preparing fluorinated intermediates for squaramide- and other hydrogen-bond-donor catalyst systems.

This application demonstrates how the compound can contribute a fluorinated aromatic group to catalyst structures designed for organic reactions.

Fluorinated Compound Development

The compound can also be used as a starting material when developing other fluorinated aromatic compounds. The combination of the aniline functionality and two CF₃ groups provides a defined structural platform for further molecular modification.

For this reason, it can be relevant to synthetic chemistry programs where researchers are screening or developing new fluorinated molecules.

Specific downstream applications should be evaluated according to the target compound and reaction route rather than assuming that every fluorinated derivative has the same end use.

What to Consider When Purchasing 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline

Purity and Grade

Start by matching the purity specification to the intended synthesis. A higher assay can be important when the compound is used in a sensitive or multistep synthetic route, particularly when impurities could interfere with downstream purification or analytical characterization.

Do not evaluate purity solely by the headline percentage. The relevant COA and specification sheet can provide additional information about the individual batch.

Product Identity and Documentation

For a chemical building block, product identity should be confirmed using consistent identifiers such as the chemical name, CAS number, molecular formula, and molecular weight.

For 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline, CAS 328-74-5 and MDL MFCD00000394 provide useful reference points when comparing supplier records.

Depending on the purchasing requirements, buyers may also need:

  • Certificate of Analysis
  • Safety Data Sheet
  • Technical specifications
  • Batch or lot information
  • Shipping and packaging documentation

These documents help ensure that the material ordered corresponds to the requirements of the intended research or production process.

Packaging and Storage

Storage conditions should be considered before placing an order, particularly when the material will not be consumed immediately.

The compound should be stored at room temperature in a dry and well-ventilated environment.Supplier-specific storage instructions and the applicable SDS should always be followed for the purchased batch.

Supplier and Batch Consistency

For recurring synthesis programs, consistency between batches can be more important than the initial purchase price. Buyers should consider whether the supplier can provide consistent specifications, appropriate documentation, and technical support for repeat orders.

Lead time and available quantity can also affect project planning. For larger or recurring requirements, it is useful to confirm availability and supply arrangements before the material is needed.

Why Choose OUHE 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline?

OUHE supplies 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline under product code A23084, with a listed purity of 98%. The product page identifies the material by CAS 328-74-5, MDL MFCD00000394, molecular formula C₈H₅F₆N, and molecular weight 229.125 g/mol.

98% Purity for Research and Synthesis

The listed 98% purity provides a defined specification for laboratories and R&D teams using the compound as a synthetic building block. Buyers can reference the product’s stated identity and purity when evaluating it against their process requirements.

Documentation and Quality Support

OUHE states that relevant documentation such as COA, MSDS, and technical specifications can be provided upon request. Its quality-control process covers sourcing, production, and delivery, supporting customers that require documented material specifications.

Supply and Custom Chemical Support

OUHE’s chemical business covers organic intermediates, specialty chemicals, fine chemicals, and other research materials, with products available for laboratory, pilot, and industrial-scale requirements. The company also provides custom synthesis and contract manufacturing services based on customer specifications.

For international orders, OUHE states that it can support packaging, documentation, and shipping arrangements. Its stated global operations cover more than 60 countries.

FAQ

What is 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline used for?

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is mainly used as a fluorinated aromatic building block and synthetic intermediate. Documented uses include the preparation of Schiff bases, substituted anilines, and thiourea-based organocatalysts.

What is the CAS number of 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline?

The CAS number of 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is 328-74-5. Its MDL number is MFCD00000394.

What is the molecular formula of 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline?

Its molecular formula is C₈H₅F₆N, and its molecular weight is 229.125 g/mol.

What purity is available from OUHE?

OUHE lists 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline at 98% purity under product code A23084.

How should 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline be stored?

OUHE lists the storage condition as room temperature, dry, and draught. Buyers should follow the supplier’s current SDS and product-specific handling instructions.

Conclusion

3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline is a useful fluorinated aromatic building block for organic synthesis, catalyst research, and the development of more complex fluorinated compounds. Its defined chemical identity, documented synthetic uses, and available commercial specifications make it suitable for a range of research and development applications.If you need 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)aniline (CAS 328-74-5), contact OUHE to confirm availability, documentation, and purchasing requirements.