Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Phosphine

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Phosphine, Trihydrogen Phosphide, Hydrogen Phosphide,  Phosphorous Hydride,

UN Number

2199

Chemical Formula

PH₃

Hazards

Toxic, flammable, corrosive, pressurized gas

PPE Considerations

SFPC or Vapor Protective Garment with SCBA if below flammable range

Fire Fighting Considerations

Spontaneously flammable in air. Do not extinguish unless leak can be controlled.

Decontamination

Ventilation, soap and water

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor, PID IP = 9.96

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless gas with fish or garlic-like odor

Vapor Pressure

41.3 ATM

Boiling Point

-126^oF

Vapor Density

1.18

Specific Gravity

.8

Miscibility

Slightly soluble

Flash Point

-

LEL/UEL

1.5-98%

Autoignition Temp

100^oF

pH

7

Toxicity

IDLH

60 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

.3 ppm/.3 ppm/1 ppm

LD50

-

LC50

~30 ppm

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Caustic to skin, may cause frostbite, flammable, toxic by inhalation 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Respiratory symptoms, skin burns, eye damage, chest tightness, N & V, diarrhea, thirst, CNS depression

Medical Treatment

Fresh air and treat symptomatically, flush areas of contact with water

Other Information

May form explosive atmosphere in air, possible violent reactions with strong oxidizers and Chromium (IV) oxide

Chemical Structure