2,3,4-Trifluoronitrobenzene brings together three fluorine atoms and a nitro group on a benzene ring, shaping a molecule with unique features for modern chemistry and industrial use. Chemists recognize it by its molecular formula C6H2F3NO2, which sets the stage for notable reactivity and selectivity. The product typically shows up as a yellow crystalline solid, with visible clarity and a distinct sharpness to its crystals. Its density sits around 1.570 g/cm³, an attribute that directly ties into its handling and storage profile in the lab and on production lines. This chemical stands out among trifluorinated nitrobenzenes thanks to its position-specific substitutions, which affect both its physical traits and chemical reactivity. Raw materials like this support the backbone of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and advanced material synthesis, with reliable use rooted in its defined purity and repeatable quality.
Looking closer at the structure, the molecule sports three fluorine atoms sitting at the 2, 3, and 4 positions on the benzene ring, paired with a nitro group that further increases electron-withdrawing effects. This combination influences both how it interacts with other chemicals and its stability across a wide range of temperatures. Arriving most frequently as flakes, powder, or prisms, the solid form travels well and stores without notable loss of quality under dry conditions. Solubility trends toward lower solubility in water yet stronger dissolving in aprotic and moderately polar solvents, typical of many halogenated aromatics. The product remains stable under normal storage temperatures, but its nitro functional group means it warrants careful treatment around strong reducing agents or heating sources. These physical properties shape the compound’s suitability for both research and bulk manufacturing settings.
Commercial 2,3,4-Trifluoronitrobenzene keeps purity standards above 98%, confirmed by tight melting point range and spectroscopic fingerprinting. Crystals form with a melting point near 38-41°C and boiling point close to 190-194°C under normal pressure, helping process engineers map out safe and efficient distillation or crystallization steps. The raw material identifies easily through its distinct yellow hue and aromatic sharpness, which make contamination or degradation easier to spot. In practical use, this product serves as a gateway for further fluorinated or nitroaromatic derivatives, benefiting medicinal chemistry by unlocking new scaffolds and agrochemical research by delivering improved crop protection agents. Those who process it in the lab or plant gain from its consistent behavior in chemical transformations, especially in nucleophilic aromatic substitution.
The HS Code for 2,3,4-Trifluoronitrobenzene usually tracks under 2904.90.9090, based on its halogenated aromatic structure. From my time working alongside chemical handlers and lab safety officers, it stands clear that safe handling remains a central concern. The nitro group plus multiple fluorines make this compound harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or by contact. It irritates eyes, skin, and airways – gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation are part of standard working protocol. Fire risk sits low but risks of release or reaction with incompatible materials such as strong reducers or alkalis do exist. Safety sheets stress proper labeling, segregated storage, and environmental containment. Some may underestimate its hazards because it looks like simple yellow crystals, but long-term exposure and accidental releases both need solid planning.
Reliable suppliers package 2,3,4-Trifluoronitrobenzene in sealed glass or high-density polyethylene containers, with volume units like kilograms for powder or liters for solutions when dissolved in appropriate carriers. Transport must comply with both domestic and international chemical safety codes, usually involving secondary containment and temperature control during shipping. Waste disposal requires controlled incineration, never in regular landfill or drains, because the nitro and fluorine content persist in the environment. Workers often overlook long-term ecosystem risks; the chemical’s persistence adds to the load of halogenated aromatics in rivers and soils, so strong tracking and take-back programs will help limit harm. As research pushes the boundaries of specialty chemicals, the way industry manages raw materials like trifluoronitrobenzene becomes more important, not only to meet customer demands but also to protect future generations and local communities.
