Phosphorus(V) oxide is used as a drying and dehydrating agent, a condensation reagent in organic synthesis and a laboratory reagent. It is also used in sugar refining and in fire extinguishing. Phosphorus pentoxide in DMSO forms an Onodera reagent which oxidizes alcohols. It is capable of converting mineral acids to anhydrides.
This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.
ApplicationsPhosphorus(V) oxide is used as a drying and dehydrating agent, a condensation reagent in organic synthesis and a laboratory reagent. It is also used in sugar refining and in fire extinguishing. Phosphorus pentoxide in DMSO forms an Onodera reagent which oxidizes alcohols. It is capable of converting mineral acids to anhydrides.
SolubilitySoluble in sulfuric acid. Insoluble in acetone and ammonia. Decomposes in water.
NotesIt is highly hygroscopic in nature and gets hydrolyzed to phosphoric acid. It is stored in a separate safety cabinet away from incompatibles such as alkalis and water.