Bismuth phosphide

Bismuth phosphide is a proposed inorganic compound with the chemical formula BiP. The structure of this material is unknown.

Synthesis

One route entails the reaction of sodium phosphide and bismuth trichloride in toluene :
Another method uses tris(trimethylsilyl)phosphine in place of the sodium phosphide.

Physical properties

When heated in air, bismuth phosphide burns.
When heated in an atmosphere of carbon dioxide, a gradual volatilization of phosphorus is observed.

Chemical properties

This compound is oxidized when boiled in water.
All strong acids dissolve it.