Phosphate Esters

How are Alkyl/Aryl Acid Phosphates made?

Alkyl/Aryl Acid Phosphates are formed by the reaction of phosphoric anhydride (phosphoric pentoxide or P2O5) and an alcohol (ROH). The process involves mixing P2O5 with the designated ROH until the reaction is complete. The hydrocarbon group (R = alkyl/aryl group) on the alcohol used will determine which alkyl/aryl acid phosphate is formed.

The final product generally contains approximately equimolar quantities of mono-alkyl/aryl and di-alkyl/aryl acid phosphates for any given alkyl/aryl radical. However, the production process is typically not controlled such that this ratio is predetermined. Other smaller constituents may include condensed phosphates, mono-/di-alkyl/aryl orthophosphates, free alcohol, and phosphoric acid.


Where are Alkyl/Aryl Acid Phosphates used?

Phosphate Esters are among the most versatile surfactants partly thanks to their stability and solubility in alkali state. They are effective coupling agents which display outstanding wetting, emulsification, and low foaming properties. Their oxidation stability and high ignition temperatures also make them a good choice in applications where fire retardancy is required.

Key applications include:

  • Plasticizers
  • Hydraulic fluids
  • Lubricating and anti-static agents
  • Multifunctional (lubrication, corrosion inhibition and anti-wear) additives for metal cutting fluids
  • Emulsifying agents
  • Esterification catalysts and polymerizing agents
  • Heavy duty alkaline cleaners/detergents
  • Curing catalysts and accelerators in resins and coatings
  • Components of rust preventive coatings for metals
  • Pigment dispersion agents
  • Paint driers and viscosity reducers

Why choose Aceto?

As a specialist in phosphorus chemistry, Aceto has been selling Phosphate Esters to customers in more than 20 countries. Certified under ISO 9001-2015, Aceto Phosphate Esters are manufactured using a 500-gallon, agitated, glass-lined steel vessel equipped with a filtration system.

Our products are internationally recognized for the following:

clarity

Superior Clarity

This is extremely important for applications where color development is prohibited, e.g., clear coats, plasticizers, emulsifying agents, catalysts and polymerizing agents, curing agents, pigment dispersion agents, viscosity reducers etc.
Outstanding

Outstanding Customer Services

Our customer satisfaction scores have consistently achieved the highest rating possible. We are always here for you, from order placement to after-sale support. 
quality

Consistent Quality

No quality issues and no returns mean less re-work and increased output for your products.  
on-time

On-time Delivery

Delivery to promise rate of 99% ensures that you will get the products when you need them. 

fAST

Fast Turnaround

Order lead time is about one week for Make-to-Stock products and three weeks for Make-to-Order products, reducing complexity in your inventory management and production planning.

Featured Products

Aceto’s Esters Portfolio

Product Name
2-Ethylhexyl Acid Phosphate Amyl Acid Phosphate Butyl Acid Phosphate
Cyclopropane carboxylic acid Cyclopropane carboxylic acid ethyl ester Decyloctyl Acid Phosphate
Dimethyl Acid Pyrophosphate Ethyl Acid Phosphate Isooctyl Acid Phosphate
Methyl Acid Phosphate Phenyl Acid Phosphate