Phosphorus Compounds

Abstract Phosphorus compounds exhibit an enormous variety of chemical and physical properties as a result of the wide range in the oxidative states and coordination numbers for the phosphorus atom. The intermediate electronegativity of phosphorus also plays a role. Phosphorus oxides, halides, sulphides, hydrides (phosphines), nitrogen compounds, and metal phosphides, as well as organophosphorus compounds, are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on the commercially important phosphorus trichloride, phosphorus pentachloride, phosphorus pentasulfide, phosphorus (V) oxide, and phosphine. Structure and nomenclature of phosphorus compounds and their organic derivatives are presented. Properties of the PO, PS, PH, PC, and PX (X = halogen) bonds are given. The manufacture of the commercial phosphorus compounds is outlined. Phosphorus compounds are found in or used as intermediates for the manufacture of oil additives, heat‐transfer and hydraulic fluids, water‐treatment chemicals, catalysts, herbicides, flame retardants, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and surfactants. Intermediates in the preparation of organophosphorus derivatives are reviewed.