Phosphorus pentoxide

Phosphorus pentoxide (CAS 1314-56-3), also referred to as P4O10 or phosphorus(V) oxide, is an inorganic acid anhydride derived from phosphoric acid. It carries no assigned E-code and is commercially identified under the EC number 215-236-1. It is not assigned a food additive classification.

In pharmaceutical synthesis, phosphorus pentoxide acts as a powerful dehydrating agent, driving condensation reactions and removing water from amide or acid intermediates to form nitriles or anhydrides. In electronics manufacturing, it serves as a dopant source in semiconductor diffusion processes, introducing phosphorus into silicon wafers to create n-type regions with controlled conductivity.

This product is supplied as a technical-grade deliquescent powder and is subject to REACH registration requirements within the EU. Procurement teams should confirm SDS compliance and storage specifications prior to ordering, as the material reacts aggressively with moisture. Standard packaging formats include sealed, moisture-proof drums and multi-layer bags under inert atmosphere.