Phosgene

Phosgene MSDS

What is Phosgene?

Phosgene is a colorless gas or low-boiling, volatile liquid. High concentrations may appear like a white or yellowish fog-like cloud. Its odor is suffocating and similar to musty or moldy hay. Phosgene is a highly toxic gas that has been used for chemical warfare. It is an insidious poison, as it is not irritating immediately even when fatal concentrations are inhaled. Phosgene is a chemical intermediate which is how it is most often encountered, though it is present in some pesticides. If heated under pressure, it can explode and rocket violently. It is not combustible. When heated to decomposition or on contact with water or steam, it can react to produce toxic and corrosive fumes. It reacts violently with aluminum, lithium, potassium, and sodium. It is stable in dry steel containers. Sodium bicarbonate can be used to neutralize liquid spills, and ammonia be used for gaseous spills.

Phosgene Exposure and Health Risks

Phosgene is extremely dangerous and highly toxic by all routes of exposure. When contacted directly, skin burns and frost bite may occur. Inhaling low concentrations can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract. It is a lung toxicant that causes damage to capillaries, bronchioles, and alveoli. Other symptoms are dry, burning throat, vomiting, cough, foamy sputum, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), chest pain, and cyanosis. Severe respiratory effects including pulmonary edema, emphysema, and death can occur after high concentration inhalation. Death can occur within 36 hours of exposure.

Regulations

The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.

Sources: NIOSH, OSHA, EPA

Measuring Phosgene

Phosgene concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed Phosgene monitors and kits. All of our Phosgene products can be viewed HERE.

D16	The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with very accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection.	0-2ppm 0-100ppm
D12	The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. It's explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases.	0-2ppm 0-100ppm
F12	The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous area. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications.	0-2ppm 0-100ppm
F12D	The Series F12D Gas Transmitter is designed for detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas.It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications.	0-2ppm 0-100ppm
B12	The B12 transmitter is a two-wire, 4-29 mA transmitter that is loop-powered to signal linearly proportional to gas concentration. Their electrochemical sensors are designed for use in ambient air or in ventilation ducts. This highly customizable application can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories.	0-2ppm

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