Trioctylphosphine is an

organophosphorus compound Organophosphorus compounds are organic compounds containing phosphorus. They are used primarily in pest control as an alternative to chlorinated hydrocarbons that persist in the environment. Some organophosphorus compounds are highly effective in ...

with the formula P(C₈H₁₇)₃ sometimes abbreviated TOP. It is usually encountered as a syrup. The compound is colorless.

Reactions

Trioctylphosphine reacts with oxygen to form

trioctylphosphine oxide Trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO) is an organophosphorus compound with the formula OP(C8H17)3. Frequently referred to as TOPO, this compound is used as an extraction or stabilizing agent. It is an air-stable white solid at room temperature. Prepara ...

. For this reason it is usually handled with

air-free technique Air-free techniques refer to a range of manipulations in the chemistry laboratory for the handling of compounds that are air-sensitive. These techniques prevent the compounds from reacting with components of air, usually water and oxygen; less ...

s. TOP reacts with elemental selenium to give

trioctylphosphine selenide Trioctylphosphine selenide (TOPSe) is an organophosphorus compound with the formula SeP(C8H17)3. It is used as a source of selenium in the preparation of cadmium selenide. TOPSe is a white, air-stable solid that is soluble in organic solvents. ...

(TOPSe), which is a reagent for the preparation of

cadmium selenide Cadmium selenide is an inorganic compound with the formula Cd Se. It is a black to red-black solid that is classified as a II-VI semiconductor of the n-type. Much of the current research on this compound is focused on its nanoparticles. Stru ...

and related semiconductors.

References

{{organic-compound-stub Phosphines

Reactions

See also

References