Phosphorus Oxychloride

Phosphorus Oxychloride

CAS Number:10025‑87‑3

Synonyms:Phosphoryl chloride; Phosphorus(V) oxychloride; Phosphoric trichloride

Chemical Formula:POCl₃

Molecular Weight:153.33 g/mol

Overview

A clear, colorless to slightly yellow fuming liquid with a pungent and musty odor. Although sensitive to moisture, it’s stable in dry, sealed conditions. POCl₃ is a key reagent in organic synthesis—for esterification intermediates, chlorination, dehydration, the Vilsmeier–Haack reaction, and semiconductor doping.

Get Quote

Physical & Chemical Properties

Property Value
Appearance Colorless to yellow oily liquid
Odor Pungent, musty fumes
Density @ 25 °C ~1.645 g/mL
Melting Point ~1.25 °C
Boiling Point ~105.5–107 °C
Flash Point ~105.8 °C
Vapor Pressure @ 20 °C ~28 mm Hg; ~104 mm Hg @50 °C
Refractive Index (n₂₀ᴅ) ~1.461
Water Solubility Reacts vigorously with water—releases HCl and phosphoric acid
Vapor Density ~5.3 × air

Applications

  • Reactive reagent for phosphate ester synthesis (plasticizers/flame retardants)
  • Chlorinating/dehydrating agent in organic reactions (e.g., Bischler–Napieralski cyclization)
  • Vilsmeier–Haack formylation agent
  • Semiconductor phosphorus dopant in silicon solar cell fabrication

Safety & Handling:

  • Highly corrosive, toxic, and fumes are inhalation hazards. TLV/TWA 0.1 ppm, STEL 0.5 ppm. Use PPE, acid-resistant gloves, goggles, and work in a fume hood. Avoid moisture—stores under inert, dry conditions.

Products Category

+91 9867824846
Enquiry Now