Triethyl phosphate

Triethyl phosphate is an organic chemical compound with the formula (C2H5)3PO4 or OP(OEt)3.

It is the triester of ethanol and phosphoric acid and can be called "phosphoric acid, triethyl ester".

Its primary uses are as an industrial catalyst (in acetic anhydride synthesis), a polymer resin modifier, and a plasticizer (e.g. for unsaturated polyesters).

In smaller scale it is used as a solvent for e.g. cellulose acetate, flame retardant, an intermediate for pesticides and other chemicals, stabilizer for peroxides, a strength agent for rubber and plastic including vinyl polymers and unsaturated polyesters, etc.

[3] It was studied for the first time by French chemist Jean Louis Lassaigne in the early 19th century.

Skeletal formula of triethyl phosphate
Ball-and-stick model of triethyl phosphate
NFPA 704 four-colored diamond Health 2: Intense or continued but not chronic exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or possible residual injury. E.g. chloroform Flammability 1: Must be pre-heated before ignition can occur. Flash point over 93 °C (200 °F). E.g. canola oil Instability 0: Normally stable, even under fire exposure conditions, and is not reactive with water. E.g. liquid nitrogen Special hazards (white): no code