Phosgene - COCl2
Find here the essential information on phosgene (COCl2) or carbon dichloride oxide: characteristics, effects on health, appropriate detection means - phosgene gas detector - and respiratory protective equipment (gas mask or powered air purifying respirator with B-P3 combined filter).
Phosgene (COCl2) properties
Carbon dichloride oxide (COCl2) – most commonly known as phosgene – is synthetized through reaction between carbon monoxide and chlorine. It can also be released during chlorinated hydrocarbon vapor decomposition or plastics pyrolysis. It can be found in the chemical industry – herbicide and insecticide synthesis – and during production of pharmaceutical products, dye and chlorination agents.
| CAS | TWA (8 hours) | STEL (15 minutes) | LSE | IP | Density / Air | Filter / SCBA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75-44-5 | 0.02 ppm | 0.5 ppm | - | 11.55 eV | 3.4 | B-P3 |
Phosgene effects on health
As phosgene (COCl2) is extremely toxic, it has been used as a chemical weapon and a poison gas during the First World War. This gas is very toxic by inhalation (R26) and causes chemical burns (R34). At ambient temperature, this gas is colorless or sometimes slightly yellowish with a decomposition smell – moldy hay or rotten apple.
Phosgene gas effects on health (COCl2)