Phosgene - COCl2
Phosgene - COCl2
Main information on phosgene (COCl2) or " carbonyl dichloride ", its physical characteristics, its effects on health, the means of detecting it ( COCl2 gas detector ) as well as the appropriate respiratory protection equipment (gas mask or assisted ventilation device with combined filter type B-P3 ).
Main characteristics of phosgene (COCl2)
" Carbonyl dichloride " (COCl2), better known as phosgene, is synthesized by the reaction between carbon monoxide and chlorine . It can be formed by the decomposition of chlorinated hydrocarbon vapors and by pyrolysis of plastics. It is found in the chemical industry (synthesis of herbicides and insecticides) and in the production of pharmaceutical products, dyes and the manufacture of chlorinating agents.
Health effects of phosgene
Phosgene (COCl2) is extremely toxic , which explains its use as a chemical weapon and poison gas during the First World War. It is a very toxic gas by inhalation (R26) which can cause chemical burns (R34). At room temperature it is a colorless gas, which can sometimes take on a slightly yellowish color with a reminiscent of decomposition (odor of moldy hay, or rotten apple).
COCl2 (Phosgene) gas detector
Although phosgene is an odorous gas, only a COCl2 gas detector can accurately measure the concentrations of this highly toxic gas, so we will move towards detecting phosgene in ppm, or even ppb.
Phosgene (COCl2) respiratory protection
For effective respiratory protection from phosgene, we will therefore opt for a full-face mask for short-term interventions or for a more comfortable assisted ventilation device with combined filters such as ABEK-P3 . If the concentrations exceed 60 times the OEL, an isolating respiratory device will be essential.