trilithium phosphide

To prepare trilithium phosphide, Li and red P are fused in a crucible made of zirconium dioxide and lined with LiF. The crucible is hermetically sealed in an iron crucible and heated to 680°C. Very pure red-brown Li3P is obtained. It is transferred from the crucibles to glass vessels provided with ground stoppers and stored under Ar. The product should not come in contact with air at any time.