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Phosgene and Toxic Gases

Phosgene is also used extensively in industry as a chemical precursor in the production of dyes, pesticides, plastics, polyurethane, isocyanates, and pharmaceuticals. Phosgene is also formed by combustion of chlorinated fluorocarbons, which are found in refrigeration units, and toxicity has been reported in refrigeration workers who were welding refrigeration conduits and welders using chlorinated solvents. Over 1 million tons of phosgene are used yearly in the United States. An estimated 5 billion pounds are produced worldwide

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The EPA has been monitoring for several other hazardous chemicals, including phosgene and hydrogen chloride, which are released by burning vinyl chloride. Exposure to phosgene can cause eye irritation, dry burning throat and vomiting; while hydrogen chloride can irritate the skin, nose, eyes and throat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Articles of Interest

The Dangers of Phosgene

Phosgene was the deadliest chemical weapon used during World War 1.

The Emergence of Phosgene Gas

The shadow of gas warfare is very long and covers us still. The very agents used in the Great War are still causing death and injury through deployment in conflict areas such as Iraq and Syria. Industrial accidents, train derailments and dumped or buried gas shells are other sources of poison gas hazards.

What can chemical weapons do to you?

Because of phosgene’s speed, there isn’t an antidote yet. The best way to treat the effects of this chemical is just immediate decontamination: running away, washing thoroughly.

Resources

American Chemistry Council

Phosgene is a raw material that is used primarily in the production of two other chemicals: methylenediphenyldiisocyanate (MDI) and toluene diisocyanate (TDI). Phosgene is produced by combining carbon monoxide and chlorine with a catalyst. Phosgene is essential in the manufacturing of products used in everyday life, including flexible foam in upholstered furniture, rigid foam as insulation in walls and roofs, and thermoplastic polyurethane used in medical devices and footwear.

CDC

Exposure to phosgene may cause delayed effects that may not be apparent for up to 48 hours after exposure, even if the person feels better or appears well following removal from exposure. Therefore, people who have been exposed to phosgene should be monitored for 48 hours afterward.