Red-phosphorus

🔬 Basic Information

• Chemical Formula: P

• Molecular Weight: Approx. 30.97

• EINECS No.: 231-768-7

• MDL No.: MFCD00133771

Physical Properties:
Appears as a purplish-red amorphous powder with a metallic luster, odorless, and does not glow in the dark (unlike white phosphorus). Melts at 590°C (under a pressure of 4357 kPa). Relative density ranges from 2.20 to 2.34. Insoluble in water and carbon disulfide.

Chemical Stability:
Significantly more stable than white phosphorus; non-pyrophoric and non-toxic. However, it ignites when heated above 200°C and poses an explosion risk when mixed with strong oxidizers.

⚠️ Safety and Storage/Transportation

Hazard Classification:
Classified as a Class 4.1 Flammable Solid, UN No. 1338, Packing Group III.

Storage Requirements:
Store in a cool, well-ventilated warehouse. Recommended storage temperature should not exceed 32°C (some sources suggest 35°C), with relative humidity below 80%. Must be stored separately from oxidizers, halogens, and other incompatible substances. Explosion-proof lighting should be used in storage areas, and equipment that may generate sparks must be prohibited.

Handling and Protection:
Operate in closed systems with local exhaust ventilation. Personnel must wear dust masks and chemical safety goggles. Handle with care during transport — load and unload gently; avoid impact, vibration, and friction.

🏭 Main Applications

• Basic Chemical Raw Material:
  Used in the production of phosphoric acid, phosphine, phosphorus pentoxide, phosphorus trichloride, etc. Also used as a raw material in matches and pesticides.

• Reagent in Organic Synthesis:
  Employed in hydroiodic acid reduction reactions in organic analysis, and in the determination of methoxy groups by reacting with generated iodine.

• Semiconductor Material:
  High-purity red phosphorus is a key raw material for synthesizing compound semiconductors such as indium phosphide (InP) and gallium phosphide (GaP). It is also used as a solid-state phosphorus source in integrated circuit manufacturing.