Iron(I) phosphide


Iron phosphide is an inorganic compound of iron and phosphorus with the chemical formula.
Fe3P occurs naturally as a mineral called schreibersite in some meteorites. Some iron may be replaced by nickel.

Synthesis

Iron phosphide can be prepared by the chemical reaction of iron and phosphorus at high temperature.

Physical properties

The compound forms gray to blue-gray crystals of a tetragonal system, space group I.
It is insoluble in water. Soluble in nitric acid, HF, aqua regia.
decomposes on melting.

Chemical properties

Iron phosphide reacts with moisture and acids to produce phosphine, a toxic, self-igniting gas.

Uses

The compound is a semiconductor widely used in high-power and high-frequency applications, such as laser diodes.