

Introduction of Zinc Phosphide (Zn3P2)
Zinc phosphide (Zn3P2) is an inorganic chemical compound. It is a grey solid, although commercial samples are often dark or even black.
Synthesis of Zinc Phosphide (Zn3P2)
Zinc phosphide can be prepared by the reaction of high purity zinc with high purity phosphorus.
3 Zn + 2 P → Zn3P2
Properties of Zinc Phosphide (Zn3P2)
Chemical formula:Zn3P2
Molar mass:258.12 g/mol
Appearance:gray tetragonal crystals
Density:4.55 g/cm3
Melting point:1,160 °C (2,120 °F; 1,430 K)
Solubility in water:reacts
Solubility:insoluble in ethanol, soluble in benzene, reacts with acids
Crystal structure:Tetragonal, tP40
Application of Zinc Phosphide (Zn3P2)
Zn3P2 is a semiconductor with a direct band gap of 1.5 eV and may have applications in photovoltaic cells(Thin film photovoltaic applications).
On the basis of recent studies, zinc phosphide (Zn3P2) appears to be a promising material for low-cost photovoltaic devices. Zinc phosphide is an ideal candidate for thin film photovoltaic applications, for it has strong optical absorption and an almost ideal band gap (1.5eV). In addition to this, both zinc and phosphorus are found abundantly in the earth's crust, meaning that material extraction cost is low compared with that of other thin film photovoltaics.
Safety of Zinc Phosphide (Zn3P2)
Zinc phosphide is highly toxic.
UN 1714
Hazard Class: 4.3
Labels: 4.3 - Dangerous when wet; 6.1 - Poison
Proper Shipping Name: Zinc Phosphide Powder
DANGER: In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously, Fatal if swallowed
Data sheet