Triphosgene

Triphosgene decomposes to a poisonous gas.

Chemical Formula: C₃Cl₆O₃

Other names: Bis(trimethyl)carbonate

Layman's explanation: Triphosgene was first prepared by Councler in 1880 by the chlorination of dimethyl carbonate. Today, triphosgene is used as a substitute for phosgene in medicine, pesticides, dyes, paints, and in the synthesis of macromolecules. Triphosgene, a solid, is easier and safer to handle than phosgene gas and can be measured more accurately. However, upon heating, triphosgene can decompose to phosgene, which is a highly toxic gas used in World War I as a chemical weapon as it causes damage to the lungs and central nervous system.

Keywords: poisonous, chemical weapon

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