Phosphorus Lump Red (P, Purity: 99.9%, APS: 2-5 mm)

Phosphorus Lump Red

Applications

Safety Matches:

One of the most common uses of red phosphorus is in the production of safety matches. Red phosphorus is applied to the striking surface of matchboxes, where it reacts with potassium chlorate and sulfur in the match head when struck, igniting the match. This use capitalized on red phosphorus’s stability and lower reactivity compared to white phosphorus.

Flame Retardants:

Red phosphorus is used in flame retardants in the plastics and textiles industries. It is added to materials to enhance their fire resistance. When exposed to heat or fire, red phosphorus can release phosphoric acid, which helps in reducing the flammability of materials like polymer resins and rubbers.

Phosphorus Compounds:

Red phosphorus is an essential intermediate in the manufacture of phosphorus compounds, such as phosphine (PH₃) and phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). It is also involved in the production of organophosphates, which are used as insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides.

It reacts with chlorine to form phosphorus trichloride (PCl₃) and can also be used in the synthesis of phosphoric esters, which are utilized in lubricants, plasticizers, and flame retardants.

Pesticides and Herbicides:

Red phosphorus plays a role in the manufacture of pesticides and herbicides. Phosphorus-based compounds are commonly used to control pests and weeds in agriculture. For example, red phosphorus is involved in the synthesis of organophosphates like chlorpyrifos, which is used as an insecticide.

Electronics and Semiconductor Industry:

Red phosphorus is used in the electronics industry as a dopant in the production of semiconductors. It is used to dope silicon and other materials to modify their electrical properties, particularly for creating n-type semiconductors. Phosphorus doping in silicon chips is crucial in the development of transistors, integrated circuits, and other electronic components.

Chemical Synthesis:

Red phosphorus is a key reagent in various organic syntheses. It is used in processes such as the reduction of organic compounds and in Wittig reactions for the preparation of olefins. It also plays a role in phosphorylation reactions, where it helps attach a phosphate group to other molecules.