Alkyl Phosphines

These are compounds in which alkyl groups have been introduced into phosphine. They possess strong reducing properties and can be used as a new type of reducing agent. They also form complexes with metals, and because of their unique catalytic properties, they can be used as catalysts for oxo reactions, hydrocarboxylation reactions, hydrogenation reactions, polymerization reactions, and reduction reactions. They are used in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including higher alcohols, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. In particular, metal complexes of alkylphosphines are used as catalysts when reacting olefins in the presence of carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas (oxo gas), enabling the large-scale synthesis of higher alcohols for industrial use. Their strong reducing capability is also utilized for anti-pilling (prevention of fiber pills) treatment of wool.