Pentyl dihydrogen phosphate

General Description

A colorless liquid. Burns, though difficult to ignite. Denser than water and is insoluble in water. Hence, sinks in water. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Vapors are heavier than air. Used as a curing agent in paints and plastics and in the manufacture of synthetic fibers.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Pentyl dihydrogen phosphate is an organophosphate. Organophosphates 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

TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form.

Safety Profile

Corrosive and irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of POx. See also ESTERS.