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Catalysts & Catalyst Precursors

Phosphorus pentoxide

CAS: 1314-56-3

Overview

Phosphorus pentoxide (CAS 1314-56-3 ), also supplied under the designation P2O5 or phosphoric anhydride, is one of the most powerful desiccating and dehydrating agents available in industrial chemistry.

It reacts aggressively with water and moisture-bearing compounds, making it a critical reagent for driving dehydration reactions and producing phosphoric acid intermediates at scale.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, P2O5 acts as a cyclization and dehydration reagent for manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients where controlled water removal is essential to reaction yield.

Semiconductor and electronics manufacturers use it as a phosphorus diffusion source to dope silicon wafers, directly influencing conductivity profiles in chip fabrication.

In agrochemical production, it serves as a precursor in synthesizing phosphate-based fertilizers and crop protection compounds for the global agricultural market.

Catalyst manufacturers also use it to prepare solid acid catalysts for petroleum refining and petrochemical processing, ensuring high efficiency in industrial chemical streams.

Phosphorus pentoxide is supplied as a white hygroscopic powder or granular solid. Standard commercial grades include technical grade for industrial synthesis and high-purity grades.

These grades meet specific pharmaceutical and electronics specifications. Packaging is typically in moisture-sealed drums or multi-layer bags to prevent premature hydration during storage.

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Physical Properties

Melting Point360 °C (sublm)
Boiling Point514 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density2.30 g/cm³
Flash Point340-360°C
AppearancePhosphorus pentoxide is a white crystalline solid.
ColorWhite
OdorPungent odour
FormVery Deliquescing Powder
Water SolubilitySoluble in sulfuric acid. Insoluble in acetone and ammonia. Decomposes in water.
Vapor Pressure1 mm Hg ( 384 °C)
Refractive Index1.433-1.436
pH1 (5g/l, H2O, 20℃)

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code28091000
UN Number1807
ADR Class8
Packing GroupII
Storage Class8A - Combustible corrosive hazardous materials
WGK (Germany)1

Other Names

phosphorus(V) oxide | phosphoric anhydride | P4O10 | diphosphorus pentoxide | (P2O5)2 | Phosphorus (V) pentoxide | diphosphonate(2-) | Phosphorus oxide (P2O5) | P2O5

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Chemical Properties

CAS Number
1314-56-3
EC Number
215-236-1
Mol. Weight
141.94
HS Code
28091000

Industries

Documentation