Abbreviations TEP, Et3PO4 Formula C6H15O4P Boiling point 215 °C (419 °F; 488 K) Pubchem 6535 | Molar mass 182.15 g/mol Density 1.07 g/cm³ | |
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Melting point −56.5 °C (−69.7 °F; 216.7 K) | ||
Triethyl phosphate is a chemical compound with the formula (C2H5)3PO4. It is a colorless liquid. It is the triester of ethanol and phosphoric acid and can be called "phosphoric acid, triethyl ester".
Its primary uses are as an industrial catalyst (in acetic anhydride synthesis), a polymer resin modifier, and a plasticizer (e.g. for unsaturated polyesters). In smaller scale it is used as a solvent for e.g. cellulose acetate, flame retardant, an intermediate for pesticides and other chemicals, stabilizer for peroxides, a strength agent for rubber and plastic including vinyl polymers and unsaturated polyesters, etc.
Triethyl phosphate is also a common intermediate in the manufacture of pesticides.
History
It was studied for the first time by French chemist Jean Louis Lassaigne in the early 19th century.