Triphenyl phosphate

Description

An aromatic phosphate that was commonly used as a Flame retardant and Plasticizer. Triphenyl phosphate (TPhP) was placed on the EPA Toxic Substance list in 2014 as a compound that exhibits acute and chronic aquatic toxicity. As a flame retardant, TPhP decomposes with heat to form Phosphoric acid, then further reacts to form pyrophosphoric acid which acts as a heat transfer blocker. In industry, TPhP is considered to be one of the most effective flame retardant for certain polymers, such as polyvinylchloride.

Synonyms and Related Terms

TPhP; TPP

Applications

• Plasticizer often used in glues, varnishes, nail polishes, and casting resins
• Flame retardant in electronic equipment, hydraulic fluids and plastics

Risks

• Low toxicity by dermal and oral contact but some studies have lined TPhP to reproductive and developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, metabolic disruption, and endocrine effects.
• Widely detected in sediment, soil, indoor dust, and air due to its extensive use.
• Biodegrades in water.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Chemical formula = C18H15O4P
• Molecular weight = 326.288 g·mol−1
• Appearance = Colorless solid
• Density = 1.184 g/mL
• Melting point = 48 to 50 °C (118 to 122 °F)
• Boiling point = 244 °C (471 °F)

Resources and Citations

• Wikipedia: Triphenyl phosphate Accessed Mar 2024
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: [https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/idlh/115866.html Triphenyl phosphate}