Tributylphosphine Oxide

Tributylphosphine Oxide (TBPO) (CAS 814-29-9) is the stable, oxidized form of tributylphosphine. It is a highly versatile reagent, typically supplied as a white to off-white waxy solid or crystalline powder with a mild, characteristic camphor-like odor. TBPO is defined by its strong, polar P=O bond coupled with three lipophilic butyl chains. This unique structure makes it a potent extractant and coordinating agent, widely used in hydrometallurgy for the selective separation and recovery of various metal ions, including rare-earth elements (REEs) and heavy metals. TBPO also finds applications as a catalyst and stabilizing additive in demanding synthetic processes.

Basic Information of TBPO

CAS No.:	814-29-9
EC No.:	212-394-3
Linear Formula:	C12H27OP
Molecular Weight:	218.32
Appearance:	White to off-white waxy solid/crystalline powder
Melting Point:	64-69 °C(lit.)
Boiling Point:	150 °C1.5 mm Hg(lit.)
Density:	0.8480
Solubility:	Slightly soluble in water; highly soluble in organic solvents, oils, and non-polar media.
Flash Point:	150°C
RIDADR:	UN 1759 8/PG 2
Chemical Structure:

Application Overview

TBPO's high thermal stability and powerful coordinating ability are leveraged across various high-value industrial and synthetic processes:

• Solvent Extraction (Hydrometallurgy): The primary application is in the liquid-liquid extraction and separation of metal ions, including uranium, plutonium, and crucially, rare-earth elements (REEs), from acid or aqueous leach solutions. The P=O group coordinates strongly with metal cations.

• Polymerization Catalyst/Additive: Used as a catalyst or co-catalyst in various polymerization reactions, such as the synthesis of polycarbonates and specialized epoxy resins, often influencing reaction kinetics and product properties.

• Organic Synthesis: Acts as a Lewis base additive or complexing agent to facilitate specific reactions by coordinating to metal centers or other electrophilic species. It is the byproduct in classic reactions like the Mitsunobu and Staudinger reactions.

• Specialty Materials: Employed as a non-volatile plasticizer or processing aid in polymer systems and coatings, particularly those requiring enhanced thermal stability and non-migratory properties.

• Ultra-Low Residual Phosphine: Our manufacturing process ensures minimal residual Tributylphosphine (TBP) content (typically<0.05 %). This purity is essential to prevent unwanted side reactions or degradation in sensitive extraction systems and catalytic processes.

• Thermal Stability Verification: Every batch is accompanied by thermal analysis data, verifying its stability up to its decomposition temperature. This provides assurance for customers using TBPO in high-heat industrial mixing or processing environments.

Hazards Classification

• GHS Classification: Acute Toxicity Oral (GHS07), Acute Toxicity Dermal (GHS07), Acute Toxicity Inhalation (GHS07), Skin Corrosion (GHS05), Serious Eye Damage (GHS05)

• Hazard Statements: Harmful if swallowed; Harmful in contact with skin; Harmful if inhaled; Causes severe skin burns and eye damage.

• UN Number: UN 1759

• Hazard Class: 8 (Corrosive substances)

• Packing Group: II