Title: Aluminum Phosphide

CAS Registry Number: 20859-73-8

Trademarks: Celphos (Excel); Phostoxin (Degesch); Quickphos (United Phosphorus)

Molecular Formula: AlP

Molecular Weight: 57.96

Percent Composition: Al 46.55%, P 53.44%

Literature References: Prepd from red phosphorus and aluminum powder: White, Bushey, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 66, 1666 (1944); Inorg. Synth. 4, 23 (1953); Montignie, Bull. Soc. Chim. Fr. 1946, 276; from Al and Zn2P3: Wang et al., J. Inorg. Nucl. Chem. 25, 326 (1963). Use as insecticidal fumigant: W. Freyberg, W. Haupt, US 2117158 (1938 to Freyberg).

Properties: Dark gray or dark yellow crystals. Cubic zinc blende structure. Must be protected from moist air since it reacts readily to produce phosphine which is highly toxic. d415 2.85 (Montignie); d 2.40 (Wang et al.). Does not melt or decompose thermally at temps up to 1000°. Treatment with water and acid produces phosphine in quantitative yields.

Density: d415 2.85 (Montignie); d 2.40 (Wang et al.)

Use: Source of phosphine; in semiconductor research; as fumigant.