Triethyl phosphite
Triethyl phosphite is an organophosphorus compound with the formula P3, often abbreviated P3. It is a colorless, malodorous liquid. It is used as a ligand in organometallic chemistry and as a reagent in organic synthesis
The molecule features a pyramidal phosphorus center bound to three ethoxide groups. Its 31P NMR spectrum features a signal at around +139 ppm vs phosphoric acid standard.
Triethylphosphite is prepared by treating phosphorus trichloride with ethanol in the presence of a base, typically a tertiary amine:
In the absence of the base, the reaction affords diethylphosphite 2P. Of the many related compounds can be prepared similarly, triisopropyl phosphite is an example.As a ligand
In coordination chemistry and homogeneous catalysis, triethylphosphite finds use as a soft ligand. Its complexes are generally lipophilic and feature metals in low oxidation states. Examples include the colorless complexes FeH24 and Ni4.
