Methylphosphonyl difluoride

Methylphosphonyl difluoride (DF), also known as EA-1251[2], is a chemical weapon precursor. Its chemical formula is CH3POF2. It is a Schedule 1 substance in the sense of the Chemical Weapons Convention. It is used for production of sarin and soman as a component of binary chemical weapons; an example is the M687 artillery shell, where it is used together with a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and isopropyl amine, producing sarin.

Methylphosphonyl difluoride
Names
Preferred IUPAC name
Methylphosphonic difluoride
Other names
Methylphosphonyl difluoride
Methylphosphonoyl difluoride, EA-1251
Identifiers
CAS Number
3D model (JSmol)
Beilstein Reference
 4-04-00-03508
ChemSpider
MeSH difluoride Methylphosphonic difluoride
PubChem CID
Properties
Chemical formula
 CH3POF2
Molar mass 100.00
Appearance Colorless liquid
Odor Pungent, acid-like[1]
Density 1.359 g/mL (77°F)[1]
Melting point −37 °C; −35 °F; 236 K
Boiling point 100 °C; 212 °F; 373 K
Solubility in water
 Decomposes[1]
Vapor pressure 36 mmHg (77°F)[1]
Hazards
Main hazards Corrosive, toxic
Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
Infobox references

Preparation

Methylphosphonyl difluoride can be prepared by reacting methylphosphonyl dichloride with hydrogen fluoride (HF) or sodium fluoride (NaF).

Safety

Methylphosphonyl difluoride is both reactive and corrosive. It is absorbed through skin and causes burns and mild nerve agent symptoms. It reacts with water producing HF fumes and methylphosphonic acid as a result. It is also capable of corroding glass. It has a boiling point of only 55.4 °C at normal atmospheric pressure, and thus a fairly high vapor pressure at room temperature.

References
  1. Handbook of chemical and biological warfare agents (2nd ed.). CRC Press. ISBN 9780849314346.
  2. "Physical properties of standard agents, candidate agents, and related compounds at several temperatures" (PDF).
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