Triethyl phosphite
Triethyl phosphite (CAS: 122-52-1) is an organophosphorus compound with the formula P(OC2H5)3 and a molecular weight of 166.16 g/mol. This colourless liquid serves as a valuable reagent in chemical synthesis, particularly as a phosphitylating agent and a precursor to other organophosphorus compounds. It also finds application as a ligand in catalysis, contributing to various catalytic processes in inorganic chemistry.
- IUPAC
- P(EtO)3,P(OEt)3
- Synonyms
- Phosphorous acid triethyl esterTriethoxyphosphinePhosphoric acid, triethyl ester

Chemical Synthesis Reagent
Triethyl phosphite is widely employed as a phosphitylating agent in organic synthesis. It is used in reactions such as the Michaelis-Arbuzov reaction for the formation of carbon-phosphorus bonds and in the synthesis of various organophosphorus compounds.
Ligand in Catalysis
This compound acts as a phosphite ligand in coordination chemistry and homogeneous catalysis. It can form complexes with transition metals, influencing the activity and selectivity of catalytic processes.
Precursor for Organophosphorus Compounds
It serves as a starting material for the synthesis of more complex organophosphorus molecules, including phosphonates and phosphinates, which have diverse industrial applications.
| Molecular weight | 166.16 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | (C2H5O)3P |
| Assay | ≥95.0% (GC) |
| Grade | purum |
| Boiling point | 156 °C(lit.) |
| Density | 0.969 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.413(lit.)n20/D 1.413 |


Hazard statements
- H226Flammable liquid and vapour
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H332Harmful if inhaled
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face respirator (US), Gloves, multi-purpose combination respirator cartridge (US), type ABEK (EN14387) respirator filter |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 54 °C / 129.2 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2323 3 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 10-22-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 16-26-36 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Triethyl phosphite used for?
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Triethyl phosphite is used as a reagent in chemical synthesis, particularly for phosphitylation and in the Michaelis-Arbuzov reaction, as well as functioning as a phosphite ligand in catalysis.
What is the CAS number and formula for Triethyl phosphite?
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The CAS number for Triethyl phosphite is 122-52-1, and its linear formula is (C2H5O)3P.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Triethyl phosphite with a minimum assay of ≥95.0% (GC), as indicated by the 'purum' grade. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the main safety concerns when handling Triethyl phosphite?
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Triethyl phosphite is flammable (H226) and harmful if swallowed (H302), inhaled (H332), or in contact with skin and eyes (H315, H319). It can also cause respiratory irritation (H335). Appropriate personal protective equipment, including eyeshields, gloves, and respiratory protection, is essential.
How is Triethyl phosphite packed and shipped?
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Triethyl phosphite is shipped as UN 2323, Hazard Class 3, Packing Group III. Packaging adheres to strict international regulations for the transport of hazardous chemicals.
How can I request a quote or sample for Triethyl phosphite?
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To request a quote or sample, please contact our sales team via the website or your designated account manager, providing the product name and CAS number (122-52-1).
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