Diphosgene
Agent Name
Diphosgene
Alternative Name
Trichloromethyl chloroformate
CAS Number
503-38-8
Formula
C2-Cl4-O2
Major Category
Toxic Gases & Vapors
Synonyms
Carbonochloridic acid trichloromethyl ester; Difosgen [Czech]; Diphosgen; Diphosgene; Formic acid, chloro-, trichloromethyl ester; Methanol, trichloro-, chloroformate; Perchloromethyl formate; Superpalite; Trichlormethylester kyseliny chlormravenci [Czech]; Trichloromethyl chloroformate [ChemIDPlus] Phosgene is UN1076; [ERG 2016]
Category
Acid Halides
Description
Colorless liquid with a fruity odor or odorless; [CAMEO]
Sources/Uses
Used as a chemical intermediate and miltary weapon; [CAMEO]
Comments
Similar to phosgene in reactivity; Decomposes slowly in water or moisture to release hydrochloric acid and carbon monoxide; Skin contact may cause burns or frostbite; [CAMEO] Causes lachrymation; [ICSC] See "Phosgene."
Biomedical References
Exposure Assessment
TIH
Yes
Lethal Concentration
LCLo (rabbits) = 900 mg/m3/15 min
Adverse Effects
Lachrymator
Yes
Toxic Pneumonitis
Yes
Dermatotoxin
Skin burns
Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent
Diseases
Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent: