Flame Retardants
REACH
Phosphorus
CAS Number
7723-14-0
EC Number
231-768-7
What is Phosphorus?
Phosphorus (CAS 7723-14-0), commonly in its red or amorphous form, is a reactive non-metallic element used as a base material in flame retardant systems and specialty chemical synthesis.
Where is Phosphorus used?
- Plastics and polymers: intumescent and halogen-free flame retardant formulations for engineering resins, cable jacketing, electronic housings
- Electronics: flame retardant printed circuit board laminates and semiconductor dopants
- Aerospace and defense: pyrotechnic compositions and smoke-generating agents for signaling and obscurant systems
- Mining and metals: reducing agent and alloying additive that modifies steel and cast iron
- It serves as a precursor to phosphoric acid, phosphine, and organophosphorus compounds.
Commercial specifications
- Purity levels typically range from 98% to 99.9% depending on end-use requirements and manufacturing protocols
Other Names (Synonyms)
element 15|15P|amorphous phosphorus|Phosphorus 6|Phosphorus 8|Phosphorus 6C|Phosphorus 30|Phosphorus 30C
What are the physical properties of Phosphorus?
Melting Point 44.1 °C
Boiling Point 280 °C
Density 1.83 g/cm³
Flash Point 30°C
Appearance reddish-brown powder
Color Red-brown
Odor Acrid fumes when exposed to air
Form powder (red)
Water Solubility insoluble
Vapor Pressure 0.03 mm Hg ( 21 °C)
pH 3 at 37℃ and 500-10000mg/L
How is Phosphorus classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS02· Flammable GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS09· Environmental Hazard
Hazard Statements
H228 Flammable solid
H250 Catches fire spontaneously if exposed to air
H300 Fatal if swallowed
H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P222 Do not allow contact with air.
P231 Handle and store contents under inert gas/… .
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Phosphorus?
HS Code 28047000
UN Number 1338
ADR Class 4.1
Packing Group III
Storage Class 4.1B - Flammable solid hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 2