Iron phosphide

Iron phosphide
	Identifiers
CAS number	12023-53-9 N
PubChem	159456
	Properties
Molecular formula	Fe3P
Molar mass	198.51 g mol−1
Density	6.74 g/cm3
Melting point	1370 °C
Solubility in water	Insoluble in water
Solubility	soluble in nitric acid, HF, aqua regia insoluble in dilute acid, alkalis
N (verify) (what is: Y/N?) Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C (77 °F), 100 kPa)
Infobox references

Iron phosphide can be used as a semiconductor. It has use in high power, high frequency applications, such as laser diodes.^[1]

Iron phosphide consists of two different elements, iron and phosphorus with a formula of Fe₃P.^[2] The physical properties of the molecule include grey, hexagonal needles. Manufacturing of iron phosphide takes place at high, elevated temperatures where the two elements are directly combined together.

Iron phosphide can be extremely dangerous when encountered by humans. There are various basic as well as more advanced techniques for providing health care to the individual. If the person manages to take in the fumes of the poisonous substance, then it is necessary to immediately establish an airway for breathing. This will allow plenty of oxygen into the body. If assistance is necessary for breathing, help the individual with a nonrebreather mask set to 10-15 liters per minute. Assist with ventilation when necessary.

If the substance goes into the person’s eyes, then immediate eye flushing is necessary. This can be done with constant amounts of water, and saline solution if the person needs to move. If the iron phosphide is ingested, water must be consumed by the victim in order to attempt to dilute the iron phosphide and dampen its effects. Do no use emetics. Ipecac should not be used either. Ipecac can worsen and aggravate any iron-induced gastrointestinal irritation that may be occurring. A different path must be pursued for victims who are seriously intoxicated. Deferoxamine can be administered to these individuals. After this, the person’s urine must be examined and kept track of to look for a pink or orange coloring to it. This symbolizes the deferoxamine-iron complex. When the urine returns to a normal coloring and iron levels are normal, the deferoxamine administration may stop. Excessive deferoxamine consumption can result in adult respiratory distress syndrome and Yersinia Sepsis. Iron phosphide reacts with moisture and acids causing dangerous effects. The product could be a flame or a toxic substance.

Goggles should always be used when handling iron phosphide. It can be very harmful to the eyes, especially for individuals who are wearing contact lenses. Contact lenses have been known to react poorly with iron phosphide due to its corrosive properties, but the scientific world does not all agree on the use of contact lenses in association with iron phosphide. With or without contact lenses though, it is necessary to always wear proper eye protection. ^[3]

References