Triethyl phosphite
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Triethyl phosphite | |
---|---|
IUPAC name | Triethyl phosphite |
Other names | Triethoxyphosphine |
Identifiers | |
CAS number | [122-52-1] |
PubChem | |
Properties | |
Molecular formula | C6H15O3P |
Molar mass | 166.16 |
Appearance | colorless liquid |
Density | 0.969 |
Melting point |
-70 °C, 203 K, -94 °F |
Boiling point |
156°C (57–58°C/16 mm) |
Solubility in water | organic solvents |
Hazards | |
Main hazards | toxic |
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references |
Triethylphosphite is an organophosphorus compound with the formula P(OCH2CH3)3, often abbreviated P(OEt)3. This colorless liquid is used as a ligand in organometallic chemistry and as a reagent in organic synthesis. The molecule features a pyramidal phosphorus(III) center bound to three ethoxide groups.
Triethylphosphite is prepared by treating phosphorus trichloride with ethanol in the presence of a base, typically a tertiary amine:[1]
- PCl3 + 3 EtOH + 3 R3N → P(OEt)3 + 3 R3NH+Cl-
Of the many related compounds can be prepared similarly, triisopropyl phosphite is an example (b.p. 43.5 °C/1.0 mm; CAS# 116-17-6).
[edit] As a ligand
In coordination chemistry and homogeneous catalysis, triethylphosphite finds use as a soft ligand. Its complexes are generally lipophilic and feature metals in low oxidation states. Examples include the colorless complexes FeH2(P(OEt)3)4 and Ni(P(OEt)3)4 (m.p. 187 °C).[2]
[edit] References
- ^ A. H. Ford-Moore and B. J. Perry (1963). "Triethyl Phosphite". Org. Synth.; Coll. Vol. 4: 955.
- ^ Ittel, Steven D. (1990). "Complexes of Nickel(0)". Inorganic Syntheses 28: 98–104. doi: .