Phosphorus pentasulfide
[CAS# 1314-80-3]

Identification

• Classification: Inorganic chemical industry >> Inorganic salt >> Phosphides, metal phosphoric acid, metaphosphoric acid, hypophosphorous acid and pyrophosphate
• Name: Phosphorus pentasulfide
• Synonyms: Diphosphorus pentasulphide
• Molecular Formula: P₄S₁₀
• Molecular Weight: 444.49
• CAS Registry Number: 1314-80-3
• EC Number: 215-242-4
• SMILES: P12(=S)SP3(=S)SP(=S)(S1)SP(=S)(S2)S3

Properties

• Density: 2.3±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 2.03 g/mL (20 ºC)
• Index of Refraction: 2.029, Calc.^*
• Melting point: 288 ºC
• Boiling point: 514 ºC
• Water solubility: reacts

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS07;GHS09 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H228-H260-H332-H302-H400
• Precautionary Statements: P210-P223-P231+P232-P273-P370+P378-P422

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Substances or mixtures which in contact with water emit flammable gases	Water-react.	1	H260
Flammable solids	Flam. Sol.	1	H228
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1C	H314
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H311
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2B	H320
Skin mild irritation	Skin Mild Irrit. 99	3	H316

• Transport Information: UN 1340

Discovory and Applicatios

Phosphorus pentasulfide is a chemical compound with the formula P₂S₅, recognized for its distinctive properties and applications in various industrial processes. The compound is formed through the reaction of phosphorus and sulfur, typically involving the thermal treatment of phosphorus sulfide (P₄S₁₀) at elevated temperatures. Its discovery can be traced back to the early studies of phosphorus and sulfur chemistry, where researchers sought to understand the reactions between these two nonmetals and their resulting products. The systematic investigation of phosphorus-sulfur compounds in the 19th century laid the groundwork for identifying and characterizing phosphorus pentasulfide.

The structure of phosphorus pentasulfide consists of a pyramidal arrangement of phosphorus atoms bonded to five sulfur atoms. This unique geometry contributes to its reactivity and makes it a versatile reagent in organic synthesis and industrial applications. One of the primary uses of phosphorus pentasulfide is in the production of thiophosphate esters, which are important intermediates in the synthesis of pesticides, herbicides, and other agrochemicals. These thiophosphate compounds play a critical role in enhancing agricultural productivity and protecting crops from pests and diseases.

In addition to its applications in agriculture, phosphorus pentasulfide is utilized in the synthesis of various organosulfur compounds. Its ability to introduce sulfur into organic molecules makes it valuable in the production of rubber, lubricants, and plasticizers. The compound serves as a sulfurizing agent, facilitating the incorporation of sulfur into polymer matrices, thereby improving their mechanical and thermal properties. Furthermore, phosphorus pentasulfide is employed in the production of flame retardants and other specialty chemicals, where its unique sulfur content enhances material performance and safety.

Phosphorus pentasulfide also finds application in the field of materials science, particularly in the development of advanced materials with tailored properties. Researchers have explored its use in creating phosphor sulfide glasses and ceramics, which exhibit unique optical and thermal characteristics. These materials have potential applications in optics, electronics, and solid-state devices, highlighting the importance of phosphorus pentasulfide in modern technology.

Despite its valuable applications, it is important to handle phosphorus pentasulfide with caution due to its reactivity and potential hazards. Proper safety measures should be implemented when working with this compound to minimize risks associated with its handling and use.

In summary, phosphorus pentasulfide is a significant chemical compound with a rich history of discovery and diverse applications. Its role in agricultural chemistry, organic synthesis, and materials science underscores its importance in various industrial sectors, making it a valuable substance in contemporary chemical research and development.

References

1963. Synthesis of phosphorus-containing derivatives of ferrocene. Bulletin of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Division of Chemical Science, 12(11).
DOI: 10.1007/bf00843820

2024. Synthetic access to thiols: A review. Journal of Chemical Sciences, 136(3).
DOI: 10.1007/s12039-024-02300-7

2021. Thiazole Synthesis. Lawesson�s Reagent in Heterocycle Synthesis.
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-16-4655-3_2