Ethyl trifluoroacetate is a volatile, colorless, transparent liquid with an ester smell. It is easily soluble in ether, ethanol, chloroform, slightly soluble in water, and can be slowly hydrolyzed in water. The vapor of ethyl trifluoroacetate can form an explosive mixture with air, and it is very easy to burn and explode when exposed to open flames and high heat. It decomposes and releases highly toxic fumes when exposed to high heat, and reacts violently with oxidants.