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Triethyl phosphate (TEP)
Cas No. : 78-40-0
EINECS No. : 201-114-5
Molecular formula: C₆H₁₅O₄P
Molecular weight: 182.15
Basic Properties
Chemical Classification
Organophosphate compound (C₆H₁₅O₄P)
Solubility
Soluble in: Water (miscible in all proportions), alcohols, ketones, esters, and most organic solvents. Insoluble in: Aliphatic hydrocarbons (hexane, mineral oil)
Functional Features
- Excellent flame retardancy and plasticization
- Good solvent properties, high thermal stability
Advantages
- Low toxicity compared to halogenated alternatives
- Good compatibility with polar polymers
Limitations
- Lower flame retardant efficiency compared to halogenated compounds
- May hydrolyze slowly in aqueous system
Flame Retardant Mechanism
TEP functions through phosphorus-based flame inhibition:
- Gas Phase: Releases phosphate radicals (PO·) that interrupt combustion chain reactions.
- Condensed Phase: Promotes char formation through phosphoric acid derivatives.
- Cooling Effect: Endothermic decomposition absorbs heat from the combustion zone.
Basic Specifications
| No. | Standards | Index | ||||
| 1 | Content % ≥ | 99.5 | ||||
| 2 | Moisture (H2O), % ≤ | 0.1 | ||||
| 3 | Acid value, mg (KOH)/g ≤ | 0.1 | ||||
| 4 | Refractive index(20℃) | 1.4050-1.4070 | ||||
| 5 | Density (25℃), g/ml | 1.069-1.073 | ||||
| 6 | Color Hazen ≤ | 10 | ||||
Primary Applications
Polymer Systems
- Materials: PVC, cellulose acetate, acrylics, and engineering plastics
- Processing: Added during compounding or polymerization (temperature < 180°C)
Performance Enhancements
- UL94 V-2 achievable at 15-25% loading
- Improves plastic flow and processing characteristics
- Maintains clarity in transparent applications
Cellulose Products
Applications: Paper, textiles, wood composites
Treatment Methods: Impregnation or surface coating
Benefits:
- Provides durable flame resistance
- Minimal impact on mechanical properties
Specialty Applications
- Lithium-ion Batteries: As electrolyte additive (5-10%)
- Chemical Synthesis: Solvent and intermediate for pesticides, pharmaceuticals
- Hydraulic Fluids: Flame-retardant additive
Formulation Tips
- Polymers: 15-30 wt% depending on base resin and requirements
- Cellulosic Materials: 10-20% by weight through impregnation
Processing Notes
- Stable up to 180°C; avoid prolonged exposure to higher temperatures
- For aqueous systems, monitor pH to prevent hydrolysis
- Compatible with most common stabilizers and additives
Performance Validation
- Should be tested according to relevant standards (UL94, LOI, ASTM E84)
- Long-term aging tests recommended for durable applications
Package
200kg/drum net each, 1,000kg square IBC package.
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