Widely used in peptide synthesis as a reagent for deprotection and cleavage from solid supports due to its strong acidity and ability to volatilize easily, allowing for simple removal. Commonly employed in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as an ion-pairing agent to improve separation of polar and basic compounds. Serves as a catalyst and solvent in organic reactions, including esterifications and Friedel-Crafts acylations, where its non-nucleophilic nature is advantageous. Also utilized in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialty fluorinated compounds thanks to its stability and reactivity.