What Is Zinc Phosphide?
Zinc phosphide is an inorganic compound composed of phosphorus and zinc. It is also known as trizinc diphosphide.
Uses of Zinc Phosphide
Zinc phosphide serves primarily as a rat poison and insecticide, widely used to control house and field rodents. In New Zealand, it is utilized in paste form to manage the spotted fox and as an insecticide for the poplar willow psyllid weevil.
As a rodenticide, zinc phosphide reacts with the stomach acid of rodents, producing highly toxic phosphine gas. This gas disrupts the central nervous system, causing respiratory distress and ultimately, the rodent’s death. Zinc phosphide is also used in photovoltaic cells.
Properties of Zinc Phosphide
With a molecular weight of 258.1, zinc phosphide is a dark gray solid or powder that melts at 420°C and boils at 1,100°C. It has a density of 4.6 g/mL, decomposes gradually in water, is slightly soluble in carbon disulfide and benzene, and almost insoluble in alcohol. It is a nonflammable compound.
Types of Zinc Phosphide
Available mainly as a reagent for research and as an inorganic material for industrial use, zinc phosphide is sold in various quantities, including 10g, 25g, and 1kg, tailored for laboratory convenience. It is marketed for rodenticides and photovoltaic materials.
Other Information on Zinc Phosphide
1. Synthesis of Zinc Phosphide
Zinc phosphide can be synthesized by reacting phosphorus with zinc, or through the reaction of tri-n-octylphosphine with dimethylzinc.
2. Chemical Reaction of Zinc Phosphide
It reacts with water to form phosphine gas and zinc hydroxide, and with acids to produce zinc ions and phosphine gas. Phosphine is a colorless, foul-smelling, highly toxic gas. Zinc phosphide decomposes upon heating, emitting toxic fumes of phosphates and zinc oxide, and reacts violently with strong oxidizers. It is considered a fire hazard.
3. Hazardous Properties of Zinc Phosphide and Regulatory Information
Zinc phosphide’s decomposition produces toxic phosphine gas. It is hazardous if swallowed, causes strong eye irritation, and can damage the central nervous system, respiratory organs, liver, kidney, and blood system. Long-term or repeated exposure may cause damage to the liver, central nervous system, kidney, and blood system. It is regulated under various laws due to its hazardous nature.