Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a solid substance, soft and plastic in consistency, obtained by processing natural phosphates mixed with sand and carbon in an electric furnace.
There are two main types of phosphorus:
a) "White" phosphorus, transparent and yellowish, toxic, highly flammable, and hazardous to handle. It is supplied in the form of molded rods in containers filled with water made of black glass, ceramic, or more commonly metal; these containers should not be left in freezing conditions;
b) red phosphorus, known as "amorphous," but which can practically crystallize, is an opaque solid substance, non-toxic, non-phosphorescent, denser and less reactive than "white" phosphorus. Red phosphorus is used in the production of matches, in pyrotechnics, and as a catalyst (for example, in the chlorination of acyclic acids).
Some medicines contain phosphorus (for example, phosphated fish oil). It is also used for the extermination of rats or for obtaining phosphoric acids, phosphinates (hypophosphites), calcium phosphide and so on.
Source: "Explanations to the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System of the Russian Federation (HSN Russia)" (prepared by the Federal Customs Service of Russia) (volume 1, sections I - VI, groups 1 - 29)