The Synthesis and 31P NMR Spectral Studies of Cyclophosphazenes

A modified method for preparing large-scale quantities of pure hexachlorocyclophosphazene (N3P3Cl6) and octachlorocyclotetraphosphazene (N4P4Cl8), phosphorus pentachloride with ammonium chloride, in the presence of zinc chloride, has been developed. The time of the reaction and the quantities of the catalyst are also studied. It is found that the optimum reaction time is 1.5 h and by-products are remarkably reduced by addition of 10% zinc chloride. As indicated by the 31 P NMR spectra, the synthesis and separation of cyclophosphazenes can be accomplished in moderate yield of tetramer (39%) and good yield of trimer (83%).