Used as a derivatization reagent in analytical chemistry, particularly in gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS). It reacts readily with compounds containing active hydrogen, such as carboxylic acids, phenols, and amines, converting them into volatile and thermally stable derivatives. This enhances their detectability and improves chromatographic performance. Especially effective for the analysis of biological samples and environmental pollutants due to its ability to introduce fluorine atoms, which aid in electron-capture detection (ECD) and provide distinct fragmentation patterns in MS. Also employed in the synthesis of fluorinated organic compounds where high chemical stability and lipophilicity are desired.