Ethylphosphonothioic dichloride

The Uses of Ethylphosphonothioic dichloride

Ethylthiophosphonic Dichloride is an intermediate in the sythesis of Fonofos (F684000). It is an organothiophosphate insecticide primarily used on corn.

Production Methods

Ethylthiophosphonic acid dichloride is prepared by the reaction of thiophosphoryl chloride with (C₂H₅)₃Al₂Cl₃or (C₂H₅)₃Al (Ethyl process).

General Description

A clear colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. Denser than water. Very toxic by inhalation. Corrosive to metals and tissue.

Air & Water Reactions

Reacts with water to form hydrogen chloride(hydrochloric acid)

Reactivity Profile

An acid halide and organothiophosphate. Acid halides are water reactive; some are violently reactive. They are incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, alcohols, amines, alkali. May react vigorously or explosively if mixed with diisopropyl ether or other ethers in the presence of trace amounts of metal salts [J. Haz. Mat., 1981, 4, 291]. Organothiophosphates are susceptible to formation of highly toxic and flammable phosphine gas in the presence of strong reducing agents such as hydrides. Partial oxidation by oxidizing agents may result in the release of toxic phosphorus oxides.

Health Hazard

GAS PRODUCED IN REACTION WITH WATER. POISONOUS IF INHALED. Irritating to eyes, nose and throat. LIQUID: Irritating to skin and eyes. Harmful if swallowed.

Fire Hazard

Combustible. POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE. Oxides of sulfur, phosphorus; hydrogen chloride and phosgene. Contact with water applied to adjacent fires will produce irritating fumes of hydrogen chloride.

Safety Profile

A corrosive. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic vapors of SOx, POx, and Cl-.