Triethyl phosphate

Triethyl phosphate (CAS 78-40-0), commonly abbreviated as TEP, is a phosphate ester used primarily as a flame retardant and reactive intermediate.

Where is Triethyl phosphate used?

• Plastics and polymer processing: reactive flame retardant additive in resins, coatings and laminates for automotive and aerospace components
• Textiles: durable flame resistance in synthetic and blended fabrics
• Construction: flame-retardant coatings and insulation materials
• It also serves as a catalyst and solvent in pesticides, pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals.
• Rubber: provides halogen-free flame resistance.
• Inks: used as a solvent.

Good to know: Buyers should confirm purity and phosphorus content with suppliers when sourcing for reactive end uses.

Formulation notes

• Reacts violently with strong bases and strong oxidants, producing heat.

Typical specification

• Supplied in technical grade and reagent grade, with purity typically ≥98%.
• Minimum assay of 99.5%.
• Water content of 0.2% or less.

Regulatory status

• For transport, assigned UN hazard class 6.1 and UN packing group III.
• EU CLP index number 015-013-00-7.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store separately from strong oxidants and strong bases, well closed, with ventilation at floor level.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.