tributilfoszfát

Tributilfoszfát, often abbreviated as TBP, is an organophosphate ester with the chemical formula (CH3CH2CH2CH2O)3PO. It is a colorless liquid with a characteristic odor and is practically insoluble in water but miscible with many organic solvents. Industrially, TBP is produced through the esterification of phosphoric acid with n-butanol.

The primary application of tributilfoszfát is as a solvent and plasticizer. It is widely used in the nuclear industry as a component of the PUREX (Plutonium Uranium Redox Extraction) process, where it selectively extracts uranium and plutonium from spent nuclear fuel. Its ability to dissolve metal nitrates and its resistance to radiation make it ideal for this purpose. TBP also finds use as a defoaming agent in various industrial processes, including paper production and paints and coatings. Additionally, it has been employed as a flame retardant in some materials, although its use in this capacity has declined due to environmental and health concerns. Its toxicological profile requires careful handling, and regulatory measures are in place regarding its discharge and disposal.