Draft Indian Standard for Phosphorus Oxychloride Technical – Specifications Open for Public Comments
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued the draft Indian Standard for Phosphorus Oxychloride, Technical – Specification (Second Revision of IS 11657) for public review and comments. This draft document is open for comments until February 28, 2025.
Background of IS 11657
The Phosphorus Oxychloride, Technical – Specification standard, first published in 1986 and revised in 2020, aims to ensure that phosphorus oxychloride produced for industrial applications meets specific technical requirements, including the quality and safety parameters essential for its use in industries such as pharmaceuticals, dyestuffs, and pesticides. The draft also incorporates instrumental test methods for the determination of iron and arsenic levels, serving as alternatives to previous methods.
The second revision of the standard introduces important updates to improve the safety and reliability of the chemical. It includes new test methods, editorial corrections, and an updated reference list. However, the specification does not apply to pharmaceutical or electronic-grade phosphorus oxychloride.
Key Updates in the Draft Standard
Phosphorus oxychloride (CAS No 10025-87-3) is a critical substance used in the production of phosphoric acid and various esters, and in the manufacture of plasticizers, additives for fuels, and lubricants. The new standards also emphasize handling precautions, noting that phosphorus oxychloride is highly corrosive and reacts violently with water, producing heat and toxic fumes.
Key Updates
- Incorporation of New Test Methods: Instrumental test methods for arsenic and iron content have been added, offering more accurate alternatives to chemical testing.
- Revised Quality Standards: The draft lays out clear requirements for the product, including:
- Boiling range (104-108°C)
- Relative density at 27°C (1.64-1.67)
- Minimum assay as POC13 (98%)
- Maximum allowable arsenic (0.0002%) and iron (0.0005%)
- Phosphorus trichloride (max 0.3%)
- Packaging and Labeling Requirements: The draft specifies packaging in polyethylene-lined drums or glass carboys and mandates clear, indelible markings on the containers. Labels must highlight the corrosive nature of the material with appropriate warnings and safety symbols. The label must also contain the caution: “CAUTION – phosphorus oxychloride is highly corrosive. When mixed with water, it decomposes with evolution of heat.”
This draft standard will be instrumental in regulating the use of phosphorus oxychloride and ensuring the safety of industries that rely on this chemical. The Bureau of Indian Standards encourages all stakeholders to submit their feedback and comments by the deadline of February 28, 2025.
For further details, please refer to the official draft here.
We acknowledge that the above information has been compiled from Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
