For any industrial chemist, researcher, or procurement specialist, a thorough understanding of a chemical's properties and specifications is fundamental to its effective application. Triethyl Phosphate (TEP), identified by its CAS number 78-40-0, is a compound whose utility is directly linked to its well-defined chemical and physical characteristics. As a colorless, transparent liquid, TEP possesses a unique set of attributes that make it valuable across various industrial sectors.
At its core, TEP is the triester of ethanol and phosphoric acid, with the molecular formula C6H15O4P and a molecular weight of approximately 182.16 g/mol. Its chemical structure, often represented as (CH3CH2O)3PO, indicates the presence of three ethyl groups esterified to a central phosphorus atom. This structure contributes significantly to its solvency properties and its reactivity as a chemical intermediate.
Key specifications for TEP typically include its assay, which represents its purity. High-quality TEP, as supplied by reputable manufacturers, will often have an assay of 99.5% or higher. This high purity is critical for applications where even minor impurities could impact performance, such as in sensitive chemical syntheses or when precise flame retardancy is required. Other important specifications include:
Physically, TEP exhibits a melting point of -56.5°C and a boiling point of around 215-216°C. Its flash point is approximately 115.5°C, indicating it is combustible but not highly flammable under standard conditions. TEP is fully soluble in water, a characteristic that distinguishes it from many other organic solvents and plasticizers. Furthermore, it readily dissolves in common organic solvents such as ethanol, ethyl ether, and benzene, enhancing its versatility as a solvent and formulating agent.
For procurement professionals and R&D scientists, understanding these specifications is vital when comparing products and suppliers. For example, when looking to buy Triethyl Phosphate, requesting a detailed Certificate of Analysis (CoA) that lists these parameters is standard practice. The availability of TEP from manufacturers in China often provides access to products that meet these stringent specifications at competitive prices.
In summary, the detailed chemical properties and specifications of Triethyl Phosphate are fundamental to its diverse industrial applications. From its purity assay and acid value to its physical characteristics like boiling point and solubility, these attributes dictate its suitability for use as a flame retardant, plasticizer, chemical intermediate, and catalyst. A thorough understanding allows for informed sourcing decisions and optimal utilization of this important chemical.
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