| Triethyl phosphite | |
|---|---|
|
Triethyl phosphite |
|
|
Other names
Triethoxyphosphine |
|
| Identifiers | |
| CAS number | 122-52-1 |
| PubChem | 31215 |
| ChemSpider | 28956 |
| Jmol-3D images | Image 1 |
|
|
|
|
| Properties | |
| Molecular formula | C6H15O3P |
| Molar mass | 166.16 g/mol |
| Appearance | colorless liquid |
| Density | 0.969 g/mL |
| 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 |
| (verify) (what is: /?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) |
|
| Infobox 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]
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).
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]