Synthesis of Alkyl Methylphosphonic Acid Esters
This manuscript describes a simple synthesis and purification of cyclohexyl methylphosphonic and isopropyl methylphosphonic acids that provides high purity (>95% purity) product in gram quantities. Based on needs for improved analytical methods for indirect detection of nerve agent use, there is an increasing demand for these nerve agent hydrolysis products. These products are not commercially available. Synthesis is based on reaction of equimolar amounts of alcohol with methylphosphonic dichloride in toluene followed by the addition of excess water (two mole equivalents). The product was then extracted from the resulting aqueous layer into chloroform. The extraction scheme proved highly effective in removing unreacted starting materials and reaction by-products.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC05-76RL01830
- OSTI ID:
- 15017396
- Report Number(s):
- PNNL-SA-40031
- Journal Information:
- Phosphorus, Sulfur and Silicon and the Related Elements, 180(8):1885-1891, Journal Name: Phosphorus, Sulfur and Silicon and the Related Elements, 180(8):1885-1891 Journal Issue: 8 Vol. 180
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Stable-Carbon Isotope Ratios for Sourcing the Nerve-Agent Precursor Methylphosphonic Dichloride and Its Products
The Hydrolysis of Di-Isopropyl Methylphosphonate in Ground Water