Trioctylphosphine oxide
Trioctylphosphine oxide (CAS 78-50-2), with the molecular formula [CH3(CH2)7]3PO and a molecular weight of 386.63 g/mol, is a phosphine compound primarily utilised as a catalyst in various organic synthesis reactions. Its applications span the preparation of Schiff base ligands, reactions involving allyl esters and hydrosilanes, asymmetric cyanosilylation of aldehydes, and the synthesis of chlorothiol formates. This chemical is supplied by Tech Serve Solutions for analytical and synthetic purposes.
- IUPAC
- (Oct)3PO,TOPO®
![Trioctylphosphine oxide ([CH3(CH2)7]3PO) — chemical structure, CAS 78-50-2; Chemistry, fine chemical supplied by Tech Serve Solutions](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpub-f4d920c906024441a773a96f7098e551.r2.dev%2Fimages%2Fproducts%2F78-50-2.png&w=3840&q=75)
Catalyst in Ligand Preparation
Trioctylphosphine oxide serves as a catalyst in the preparation of specific tetradentate planar-chiral hydroxy-substituted ferrocenecarboxaldimine Schiff base ligands.
Catalyst in Hydrosilylation Reactions
It facilitates reactions between allyl esters and hydrosilanes, acting as a key catalyst in this transformation.
Catalyst in Asymmetric Synthesis
The compound is employed as a catalyst in the asymmetric cyanosilylation of aldehydes, contributing to stereoselective synthesis.
Reagent in Formate Synthesis
Trioctylphosphine oxide is used in the preparation of chlorothiol formates from thiols and phosgene.
| Molecular weight | 386.63 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | [CH3(CH2)7]3PO |
| Assay | 99% |
| Grade | for extraction analysis |
| Boiling point | 201-202 °C/2 mmHg(lit.) |
| Application | Catalyst in:• Preparation of tetradentate planar-chiral hydroxy-substituted ferrocenecarboxaldimine Schiff base ligands1• Reactions of allyl esters with hydrosilanes2• Asymmetric cyanosilylation of aldehydes3• Preparation of chlorothiol formates from thiols and phosgene4 |
| Melting point | 50-52 °C(lit.) |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H318Causes serious eye damage
Precautionary statements
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 110 °C / 230 °F |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 38-41 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-39 |
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 Trioctylphosphine oxide used for?
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Trioctylphosphine oxide (CAS 78-50-2) is used as a catalyst in various organic synthesis reactions, including the preparation of Schiff base ligands, hydrosilylation reactions, asymmetric cyanosilylation of aldehydes, and the synthesis of chlorothiol formates.
What is the CAS number and formula for Trioctylphosphine oxide?
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The CAS number for Trioctylphosphine oxide is 78-50-2 and its linear formula is [CH3(CH2)7]3PO.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply for Trioctylphosphine oxide?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Trioctylphosphine oxide with an assay of 99% and a grade specified for extraction analysis. This product is not represented as USP, BP, or EP grade.
What are the safety considerations for handling Trioctylphosphine oxide?
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Trioctylphosphine oxide is classified with GHS05 symbol and the signal word 'Danger'. It carries hazard statements H315 (Causes skin irritation) and H318 (Causes serious eye damage). Recommended personal protective equipment includes a dust mask type N95 (US), eyeshields, and gloves. Handle with appropriate precautions to avoid skin and eye contact.
Is Trioctylphosphine oxide available for export?
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Yes, Tech Serve Solutions is a specialist global supplier and exporter of fine chemicals, including Trioctylphosphine oxide, and can accommodate export requests.
How can I request a quote or sample for Trioctylphosphine oxide?
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To request a quote or a sample of Trioctylphosphine oxide, please contact our sales team through the designated channels on the Tech Serve Solutions website.
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