A Novel Processing Technique for the Large-Scale Production of Red Phosphorus

Current techniques for the production of red phosphorus powders cannot produce 5¿m size powders while maintaining a pure surface. Two new processing techniques are suggested that are capable of processing red phosphorus into powders 5¿m or smaller in size. These techniques have been demonstrated with conventional metals and alloys but not with phosphorus. One important advantage of these processing techniques is their ability to apply a surface passivation layer on these powders in-situ, since 5¿m size or smaller phosphorus powders present a fire hazard. The passivation layers proposed here will provide a dual-benefit namely keep the powders inert during handling in ambient atmosphere while also adding to the fire retardant capabilities. The Phase I program will establish feasibility of processing by both techniques. The quality of powders produced as well as the processing costs will be utilized to narrow down the processing into one selected approach at the end of Phase I.