Bisguanidinium phosphate stepped onto the chemical scene over fifty years ago, driven by the hunt for molecules capable of bringing precision and efficiency to agriculture, analytical chemistry, and materials science. Early researchers focused on the marriage of guanidinium derivatives and phosphate anions, realizing both structural stability and a range of functional properties. Labs around the globe worked through the 1970s and 1980s to determine synthesis routes that would maximize yield, purity, and reliability, moving from crude bench-scale methods to repeatable industrial processes. Over time, the compound became a common reagent in the chemical toolkit, especially for those involved in separation technologies and flame retardant development. The rise of sustainable chemistry in recent years sent researchers back to the drawing board, looking for greener pathways to this important salt.
Bisguanidinium phosphate appears on chemical catalogs as a fine, crystalline solid, renowned for its stability and ease of storage compared to more sensitive phosphate species. Most commercially available grades opt for high purity, which means limits on chloride, sulfate, and heavy metal contaminants down to parts per million. This focus on purity reflects widespread use in biotechnology workflows, where unintended ions could throw off assays or cellular experiments. Perhaps less well advertised, the compound’s physical sturdiness under ambient conditions keeps product waste low, making it an appealing choice for cost-conscious users. Every shipment arrives with a detailed technical data sheet listing origin, batch, purity, and moisture content—testament to a marketplace that values traceability and consumer trust.
Standard samples of bisguanidinium phosphate present as slightly hygroscopic white crystals or powder. They dissolve readily in water, with solubility rising gently as temperature increases, which allows for straightforward formulation into liquid reagents. Solubility in organic solvents remains limited. The compound does not emit odors or volatilize under normal storage conditions, and its melting point sits comfortably above 150 °C. Under a microscope, crystals show well-defined facets, reflecting strong hydrogen-bonding networks between phosphate and guanidinium units. The combination of strong ionic character and charge delocalization gives it impressive chemical resistance; strong oxidizers, acids, or bases will degrade the compound, but it shrugs off most other reagents without fuss.
Manufacturers typically specify bisguanidinium phosphate for laboratory and industrial use with rigorous cutoffs: purity above 98%, water content below 1%, and minimal traces of sodium or potassium. Product labeling follows the Globally Harmonized System, including hazard pictograms, signal words, and a summary of potential routes of exposure. Containers bear batch numbers coded to origin and manufacture date, and shipping paperwork always lists the United Nations number for phosphate-class salts, ensuring transparent movement through the supply chain. Shelf life stretches two to three years in original packaging, and most distributors advise re-sealing after each use to avoid clumping from atmospheric moisture.
Most modern syntheses of bisguanidinium phosphate take the simple route: controlled reaction of guanidine carbonate or nitrate with an aqueous solution of phosphoric acid under stirring. Chemists carefully measure temperature and acid addition rate to avoid runaway exothermic reactions. The mixture settles, with precipitation of the desired salt occurring rapidly. Filtration and several washes with deionized water strip away residual acid, carbonate, or byproducts. After drying in vacuum ovens at moderate temperature, the solid is ground and tested for purity via titration and spectroscopy. In larger plants, continuous processing with feedback controls speeds up purification while reducing waste and solvent use.
Chemists have long explored the reactivity of bisguanidinium phosphate in search of added value. The compound’s guanidinium cations welcome alkylation, acylation, or substitution reactions, giving rise to a suite of functionalized derivatives. On the phosphate side, adventurous process chemists have grafted the anion onto various supports, producing ionic polymers with tailored solubility or exchange properties. Mixing the salt with metal ions produces colorful, often crystalline coordination complexes. Exposure to strong reducing or oxidizing agents drastically alters the molecular structure, which sometimes helps analysts break it down during waste treatment.
Research papers and product labels use a handful of names in place of bisguanidinium phosphate, which tempts confusion. Chemically, it is known as 1,1'-Azanediylbis(guanidinium) phosphate, diguanidinium orthophosphate, or guanidine phosphate salt. Trade catalogs might offer “BGdP” or “DGUP Salt” as shorthand, especially in the context of electron microscopy stains or intermediate chemicals for biochemistry. Chemical Abstracts Service numbers provide a helpful reference point despite the shifting vocabulary across different journals and countries.
Despite its relative stability, bisguanidinium phosphate demands respect in any professional setting. Dust formation hinders respiratory health, so prudent users keep open containers in fume hoods or under extraction arms. Skin or eye contact causes mild irritation for some, calling for gloves, eye protection, and clean lab coats. Large-scale operations emphasize spill management, with staff trained to sweep up solids and flush surfaces with plenty of water. The salt does not combust or pose a notable explosion risk, but extended heating or contact with incompatible acids leads to hazardous decomposition products like nitrogen oxides or phosphoric fumes. Modern safety data sheets recommend that facilities review disposal obligations closely, as phosphate ions occasionally spur strict wastewater limits.
My first encounters with bisguanidinium phosphate came in university labs, mostly in analytical chemistry. The compound served as a powerful ion-pairing agent, helping coax tough-to-separate molecules through chromatography columns. Academic research soon revealed bread-and-butter roles in fertilizer blends, flame retardants for textiles, and precursor formulations for specialty polymers. Industrial chemists prize the compound’s reactivity, slotting it into roles as a catalyst support or transfer agent in organic synthesis. Biotechnologists appreciate the salt’s ability to stabilize enzymes and buffer pH across demanding cellular environments. Semiconductor makers dabble with it as an anti-static agent. Its versatility is hard to overstate; every discipline seems to have their own niche use.
Recent years brought tight focus on sustainable sourcing and processing. Research teams investigate biosourced guanidine and low-impact acid neutralization, shaving off waste and energy at every step. Efforts extend to tailor-made functional materials based on bisguanidinium phosphate frameworks, with special attention paid to silica-doped composites for environmental remediation. New analytics leverage X-ray crystallography and NMR to probe the salt’s structural behavior inside emerging nanomaterials. Environmental scientists collaborate with chemical engineers to build recycling and recovery schemes, clawing phosphate resources from process effluent and laboratory waste. The compound now stands as a test case for the broader challenge of closing chemical material loops while supporting cutting-edge science.
Researchers spent years unraveling the true toxicity profile of bisguanidinium phosphate. Most acute exposure trials in rodents or rabbits point toward low oral and dermal toxicity, ranking the substance as less hazardous than many other industrial salts. Chronic exposure data remains thinner, prompting regulatory bodies to keep closed-loop systems on large-scale sites. In water and soil, the compound breaks down to guanidine and phosphate ions, drawing comparisons with fertilizer spill scenarios. Few links exist between bisguanidinium phosphate and long-term bioaccumulation. Risk assessments now emphasize local contexts: aquatic organisms in sensitive waterways might face stress if run-off increases, suggesting continued importance for site monitoring.
Innovation continues to drive deeper exploration of bisguanidinium phosphate’s promise and responsibility. Green chemists are testing next-generation synthesis powered by alternative energy, progressing toward carbon neutral and zero-waste routes. Materials researchers seek to integrate phosphate-based frameworks into smart membranes and highly selective adsorbents for battery and water treatment applications. Product stewardship stands tall; regulatory shifts and consumer preferences push manufacturers to document every ingredient and process behind each lot sold. The compound’s journey mirrors society’s broader push: do more with less, track the impact, and stay open to methods that put health and the planet first.
Bisguanidinium phosphate doesn’t show up in advertisements or everyday conversations, but it quietly plays a role in several industries. At its core, this compound comes from the merging of guanidine groups and phosphate ions. That gives it some unique chemical traits—traits that find practical use in fields that touch our lives.
Fire safety often goes underappreciated until there’s trouble. Bisguanidinium phosphate steps forward as a fire retardant, working its magic in plastics and construction materials. Materials treated with it burn less easily or not at all. For anyone who has lost possessions or even people to a fast-moving fire, knowing products in your home burn slower gives a sense of security. Industry tests show that guanidine-based fire retardants slow combustion and can reduce the spread of flames. Not every flame retardant is created equal—some leach toxins or break down over time—but bisguanidinium phosphate stands out for its stability and lower toxicity compared to halogenated rivals.
Manufacturers look for compounds that will get the job done without making a mess. Bisguanidinium phosphate finds its way into specialty chemical processes. In my experience working with lab teams in the specialty chemicals sector, the need for reliable intermediates comes up all the time. It acts as an intermediate or a helper in making other chemicals, especially where a stable, strongly basic group helps drive a reaction. Paint formulators use compounds like this to tweak how pigments bind or how coatings set—or to make flame-resistant coatings for wires and electronic components.
Farmers watch the price and performance of their fertilizers as closely as the weather. Research in crop science explores phosphate-based fertilizers, and bisguanidinium phosphate sometimes appears in experimental blends. Scientists see promise in how the compound breaks down and releases nutrients. Crops respond well to available phosphorus, essential for root growth and energy transfer in plants. Field trials run by universities like Iowa State and Purdue show that the right phosphate blend can boost yield by 10–15 percent, supporting food security on a hungry planet. Bisguanidinium phosphate isn’t widespread in this context, but interest grows as supply chains look for more sustainable or precise ways to deliver plant nutrients.
Any time a new ingredient enters the food supply or construction stream, it raises questions. Is it safe? Where does it go after use? Because bisguanidinium phosphate avoids many persistent organic pollutants, it tends to draw less regulatory scrutiny than some older additives. In lab settings, careful handling keeps risks low. Researchers evaluate the breakdown products to make sure nothing harmful turns up in soil or water.
There’s plenty of work ahead to tighten up fire safety, improve fertilizer efficiency, and keep industry moving. As supply lines come under pressure and people demand safer, greener materials, compounds like bisguanidinium phosphate offer practical options. Working hands-on in R&D, I’ve seen firsthand that no chemical is perfect, but those with low toxicity and high stability stand a better chance of making a positive mark. Open communication among scientists, manufacturers, and regulators helps shape these materials for a safer, smarter future.
Handling chemicals like bisguanidinium phosphate can turn dangerous pretty quickly if you don’t stick to proper safety habits. I’ve seen a few folks think they can shortcut protocols for the sake of “getting the job done faster,” only to wind up with burns or trips to the emergency room. Bisguanidinium phosphate can irritate skin and eyes, and breathing dust isn’t good for your lungs, either. The right attitude is always respect—and that means setting up your workspace so accidents don’t spiral out of control.
If you skip gloves or forget your goggles, you’re asking for trouble. Nitrile gloves protect your hands from both the chemical and from the powdery dust that tends to float around. Eye protection isn’t up for debate here—one drop splashing in your eye can cause pain and even permanent vision issues. I always double-check my face shield whenever working with it in a damp form, just in case anything sprays. Lab coats help, but long sleeves offer another barrier when you’re not in a lab. Never turn PPE care into a matter of luck.
I can’t recall how many times I’ve stepped into a small room to find thick air because someone sealed up the door too tight. Even if bisguanidinium phosphate doesn’t have a strong smell, small particles can float, and inhaling them isn't something your respiratory system will thank you for. A chemical fume hood is the best bet, drawing vapors and dust away from your face. In labs that lack fancy hoods, keeping windows open and using fans still helps. Clean air makes everyone safer.
A lot of warehouses and supply cabinets have mystery spills under them. I chalk up "mystery goo" to carelessness. Dry, cool places with solid ventilation stop the substance from breaking down or reacting. I keep containers sealed tight because any humidity or leaks create clumps or let dangerous vapors escape. It never pays to stick chemicals near acids or bases, since many substances react and produce extra hazards.
It always strikes me how dangerous small scoops can seem once you realize an ounce on your skin could spell hours of irritation. Pouring or measuring in a way that avoids splashing saves trouble down the line. Spills don’t wait for a convenient moment, so keeping a clean-up kit close is non-negotiable. I’ve often seen the difference a prepared team makes when something goes wrong. Every lab or storage shed should provide access to spill absorbent, waste bins for chemical disposal, and clear waste labeling. Lugging around an unlabeled bottle creates nightmares for both users and anyone picking up trash.
Plenty of incidents boil down to folks thinking “it won’t happen to me.” Wash stations by the door and first aid kits at arm’s reach give everyone a fighting chance if an accident hits. Running through drills every few months isn’t a waste of time; it keeps that streak of overconfidence in check. Real knowledge kicks in fast if anyone’s exposed, and that means flushing eyes or skin with water right away, calling for help without panicking, and knowing exactly who to reach.
New studies pop up all the time. I make it a point to check recent factsheets from reliable sources like the CDC or NIOSH for confirmed hazards. Any odd smells, spills, or unexplained reactions go in the logbook, and I talk about them at the next team huddle. Sharing stories—mistakes included—strengthens the safety culture more than just another dusty rulebook.
Every chemical has its story, and the formula acts as the first sentence. For students, researchers, and the chemical industry, getting the formula right means everything from safe handling to accurate reactions. So, when it comes to bisguanidinium phosphate, knowing its chemical makeup helps keep accidents at bay and guides proper application.
Bisguanidinium phosphate doesn’t just roll off the tongue, and its structure holds more than its name suggests. “Guanidinium” refers to an ion with the formula CH6N3+. This ion looks simple, but its properties stretch far, making it valuable in both biology and industry. Add two of those guanidinium cations together and top it with phosphate — one of the most recognized anions in chemistry, PO43–. Pairing these together, we get the salt through an ionic bond. Balancing the charges takes two guanidinium ions for every phosphate. So, the chemical formula is (CH6N3)2HPO4 for the monohydrogen version or (CH6N3)2PO4 for the fully deprotonated version, which appears in much of the literature.
Over the years, I’ve seen chemistry classrooms light up when tangible examples help demystify long formulas. Bisguanidinium phosphate serves as a gentle giant in science; it’s not likely the first thing people think of, but it works hard behind the scenes. For instance, fireproofing agents use this compound because the phosphate group can encourage char formation. In biology, researchers bring in guanidinium groups for protein isolation work. Touching these compounds in lab settings reminds me that the right structure isn’t merely an academic detail; it’s the backbone for successful, safe chemistry.
Learning names and formulas sometimes gets in the way of bigger questions. Confusion creeps in when common names or synonyms hide the actual structure. Bisguanidinium phosphate goes by multiple names, such as diguanidinium phosphate or guanidinium hydrogen phosphate, depending on protonation. Skipping the deeper chemistry, some online sources might even cite the wrong formula, especially on less-regulated websites or forums. That creates a mess for students hoping to find clear answers. It’s easy to see how E-E-A-T principles stress accuracy and clarity. Trustworthy sources back up their answers with published references or reliable databases, which helps everyone from young learners to seasoned chemists check their facts.
Open-access chemistry databases like PubChem or ChemSpider offer direct, verifiable answers. For bisguanidinium phosphate, these resources denominate the formula as (CH6N3)2PO4. This formula matches the stoichiometry of the ionic constituents: two guanidinium cations and one phosphate anion. Chemical safety datasheets and peer-reviewed papers echo this data, highlighting its importance for accurate lab work. Relying on official sources or textbooks helps avoid the headache caused by conflicting internet information.
Teaching, experimenting, and working in this field taught me to double-check sources and reach for the roots of a formula. Anyone sharing scientific data should dig as deep as needed to find primary literature or authoritative compendia. Beyond the lab, this clarity in communication trickles down to safer classrooms, better industrial handling, and a stronger understanding for anyone asking the original question: what’s the formula?
Ask anyone who’s spent time in a lab or a warehouse—chemical safety isn’t some abstract policy handed down in a dusty binder. When talking about a compound like bisguanidinium phosphate, the choices made about storage can mean the difference between business as usual and a call to the fire department. It’s not just compliance or ticking boxes; folks’ health and a company’s whole investment sit in the balance.
Before tossing another drum onto a shelf, think about what makes this compound unique. Bisguanidinium phosphate can react with strong oxidizers, acids, or moisture. If it gets damp, there’s risk of clumping or contamination, and—worse—possible release of hazardous byproducts. Leaving it out in an open area, exposed to humidity, just asks for trouble. Down the road, the stuff absorbs water, changes appearance, and loses effectiveness. In the past, I’ve seen poorly stored chemicals lose their punch, costing labs time and money as researchers scramble for fresh stock.
Keeping chemicals safe always starts with the right container. Manufacturers usually ship bisguanidinium phosphate in tightly sealed, high-density polyethylene drums or lined containers. Don’t play fast and loose by dumping it into old, repurposed bins—cheap containers tend to leak or break. One spill eats up hours, ruins inventory, and puts workers at risk. If possible, labels should never get compromised. Faded writing and ripped stickers slow down emergency responses and create headaches during audits.
Temperature control makes all the difference for sensitive compounds. Bisguanidinium phosphate should stay in a cool, dry spot—somewhere below room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Even a storage closet near a radiator poses problems: repeated cycles of warming and cooling force condensation inside containers. I once dealt with a stockpile of spoiled chemicals thanks to a leaky air conditioner in late August; cleaning up after that wasn’t a fond memory.
It’s easy to forget the human side, but those working shoulders-deep in supply rooms or laboratories need a margin for error. Always keep bisguanidinium phosphate separate from strong acids or oxidizing agents. Segregation isn’t overkill here. Stacked shelving should stay tidy, with clear zones between incompatible chemicals. When proper organization slips, people become complacent, and missteps happen faster than you’d think.
One simple measure—regular checks on stock—catches most problems before they grow. I’ve found expired containers, burst seals, and even old batches getting mixed with new. Rotating stock, scheduling inspections, and keeping thorough logs keeps operations tight. That habit builds a culture of responsibility that withstands emergencies.
Everyone involved should wear gloves, eye protection, and appropriate clothing when handling bisguanidinium phosphate. Workers who know why certain steps matter stay safer. Ongoing training means new hires don’t take shortcuts, and veterans don’t slip into bad habits.
Spill kits, eyewash stations, and emergency showers should stay nearby. A fast response during an accident often depends on how easy it is to grab safety gear. Without a plan, the chaos grows and minor issues spiral out of control.
Too many operations treat storage rules as an afterthought. From personal experience, the extra minutes spent labeling, inspecting, and shelving chemicals correctly always pay off down the line. Safe storage isn’t just about ticking off compliance boxes—it’s about keeping people safe, protecting investments, and making sure tomorrow runs as smoothly as today.
Bisguanidinium phosphate shows up in certain specialty chemicals, research labs, and, in rare cases, niche industrial settings. Chemists value its unique structure for specific reactions, but outside those circles, hardly anyone gives it a second thought. Before anyone gets the wrong idea—this isn’t something you’ll find in household products or local grocery stores.
If you ask any safety officer about chemicals with guanidinium and phosphate combos, their biggest worry points straight to irritant potential. Skin, eyes, lungs—once you’re exposed, there’s no mistaking the burning or stinging. Most studies on related compounds report that improper handling means redness, coughing, and sometimes even more serious respiratory complaints. Nobody should take eye exposure lightly; guanidinium salts can pack quite a punch in that department. Ingesting bisguanidinium phosphate by accident goes beyond just discomfort—some reports from toxicology research link high doses to stomach upset and possible systemic toxicity.
Long-term health effects don’t get much spotlight, probably because this chemical isn’t used widely enough for big human studies. Still, erring on the side of caution makes sense, especially since chemicals in the guanidinium family sometimes disrupt cellular functions at high concentrations. Anyone dealing with this in the lab wears gloves, goggles, and usually a lab coat or apron—not as a formality, but to avoid real harm.
People sometimes forget that just because something isn’t common, its waste still matters. Bisguanidinium phosphate dissolves nicely in water. That means any spill or careless disposal carries a risk for local waterways or soil. Phosphates already raise red flags in environmental circles because they feed algal blooms if they reach lakes or streams—think about those thick, green ponds nobody wants to go near. Adding guanidinium compounds to the mix doesn’t help; some related chemicals can stress aquatic life or change how soil microbes work.
Wastewater treatment plants can struggle with specialized chemicals, so the burden falls back on the point of use—labs and factories make or break safe disposal. No amount of sewer dilution turns this compound into something benign. If you care about what happens downstream, don’t treat chemical waste like regular trash.
The big fix starts with awareness. Those who work with bisguanidinium phosphate know the drill: material safety data sheets, local exhaust ventilation, spill kits on hand, and well-marked storage. But outside of strict lab settings, small operations or untrained personnel sometimes slide on protocol. Regular trainings and easy-to-follow safety posters tend to improve compliance without making work grind to a halt.
On the environmental side, stronger rules for chemical disposal keep nasty surprises out of landfills and water systems. Simple fixes—labeling hazardous waste, using proper containers, partnering with certified disposal companies—go a long way. Some facilities also install filtering systems so residues don’t slip through the cracks. Countries with enforced guidelines for chemical discharge report fewer contamination incidents, so regulations make a difference.
Bisguanidinium phosphate rarely causes trouble for the general public, but in the wrong hands, a “rare” chemical quickly becomes a headache. Careful handling, transparent reporting, and respect for disposal rules keep everyone safer, from the researcher in the lab to families enjoying a picnic by the river.
| Names | |
| Preferred IUPAC name | Bis({\itshape diaminomethylidene}ammonium) phosphate |
| Other names |
Hexamethylene bisguanidinium phosphate 1,6-Bisguanidinohexane phosphate |
| Pronunciation | /bɪsˌɡwænɪˈdɪniəm ˈfəʊsfeɪt/ |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 5423-23-4 |
| Beilstein Reference | 17202438 |
| ChEBI | CHEBI:37149 |
| ChEMBL | CHEMBL616311 |
| ChemSpider | 20902359 |
| DrugBank | DB11449 |
| ECHA InfoCard | 03b0d1d9-b5c6-41f8-a972-795f8be2d555 |
| EC Number | 208-994-3 |
| Gmelin Reference | 136245 |
| KEGG | C21142 |
| MeSH | D017704 |
| PubChem CID | 14484217 |
| RTECS number | TX8980000 |
| UNII | 8I0Y7M8A4R |
| UN number | 3261 |
| Properties | |
| Chemical formula | (C₂H₈N₆)₂H₂PO₄ |
| Molar mass | 310.19 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | 1.42 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in water | Soluble in water |
| log P | -3.5 |
| Vapor pressure | Negligible |
| Acidity (pKa) | 2.3 |
| Basicity (pKb) | 2.53 |
| Refractive index (nD) | 1.430 |
| Viscosity | Viscous liquid |
| Dipole moment | 7.63 D |
| Thermochemistry | |
| Std molar entropy (S⦵298) | 427 J·mol⁻¹·K⁻¹ |
| Std enthalpy of formation (ΔfH⦵298) | –2915 kJ/mol |
| Pharmacology | |
| ATC code | D08AX09 |
| Hazards | |
| Main hazards | Causes serious eye irritation. |
| GHS labelling | GHS05, GHS07 |
| Pictograms | GHS06,GHS08 |
| Signal word | Danger |
| Hazard statements | Harmful if swallowed. Causes skin irritation. Causes serious eye irritation. |
| Precautionary statements | P264, P280, P305+P351+P338, P337+P313 |
| NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | 1-0-0 |
| Lethal dose or concentration | LD₅₀ (oral, rat) > 2000 mg/kg |
| LD50 (median dose) | LD50 (median dose): 590 mg/kg (oral, rat) |
| NIOSH | GZ3800000 |
| PEL (Permissible) | PEL: Not established |
| REL (Recommended) | 4,000 mg/kg bw/day |
| IDLH (Immediate danger) | Not established |
| Related compounds | |
| Related compounds |
Biguanide Guanidinium Phosphoric acid Guanidine phosphate |
