Chloropicrin

"Chlorpicrin, it smelled like flypaper" (OHA 365), National Museum of Health and Medicine (5405373108)

Chloropicrin, also known by its chemical name trichloronitromethane, is a chemical compound with the formula Cl₃CNO₂. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent odor that has been used in various applications, including as a pesticide, herbicide, fungicide, and as a chemical warfare agent. Due to its potent properties, chloropicrin is also used in small amounts to warn of leaks in more dangerous chemicals, serving as an odorant.

History

Chloropicrin was first synthesized in 1848 by Scottish chemist John Stenhouse by reacting chlorine with picric acid. Initially, its potential applications were not fully understood. However, during World War I, it was employed as a chemical weapon due to its ability to cause intense irritation to the lungs, eyes, and skin, leading to its nickname "tear gas." Post-war, its use shifted towards agricultural and industrial applications, particularly as a soil fumigant to control nematodes, fungi, and weeds.

Production

The production of chloropicrin involves the reaction of nitromethane with sodium hypochlorite in the presence of acetic acid, which acts as a catalyst. This process yields chloropicrin along with by-products such as sodium chloride and water.

Uses

Agricultural Use

Chloropicrin is widely used in agriculture as a pre-planting soil treatment. It is effective in controlling a broad spectrum of pests, including fungi, nematodes, and weeds, thereby helping to increase crop yield and quality. When applied to the soil, it sterilizes the treated area, reducing the population of harmful organisms.

Chemical Warfare

During World War I, chloropicrin was used as a chemical warfare agent. Its irritating properties made it effective in forcing soldiers out of trenches and bunkers. However, its use in warfare is now prohibited under various international treaties, including the Chemical Weapons Convention.

Safety and Handling

Due to its toxic and irritating nature, handling chloropicrin requires strict safety measures. It can cause severe eye and respiratory irritation, skin burns, and has been linked to more serious health effects with prolonged exposure. Safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respirators are essential when handling this chemical.

Environmental Impact

Chloropicrin is subject to breakdown by sunlight and microbial action in soil and water, which reduces its environmental persistence. However, its use as a pesticide can still pose risks to non-target organisms, including beneficial soil microbes, and to water quality if not managed properly.

Regulation

The use of chloropicrin is regulated by various national and international agencies to protect human health and the environment. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees its application in agriculture, ensuring that it is used in a manner that minimizes potential harm to workers, consumers, and the environment.

Conclusion

Chloropicrin plays a significant role in agriculture and has a historical significance as a chemical warfare agent. While it offers benefits in pest control and soil fumigation, its toxic nature necessitates careful handling and adherence to regulatory guidelines to mitigate risks to human health and the environment.