Pentachlorophenol
Overview[edit | edit source]
Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is a synthetic organohalogen compound that has been used as a pesticide and a disinfectant. It is a chlorinated aromatic compound that is highly effective in controlling a wide range of microorganisms, fungi, and insects.
Chemical Properties[edit | edit source]
Pentachlorophenol is a chlorinated phenol with the chemical formula C_HCl_O. It is a white crystalline solid that is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents. The compound is known for its stability and persistence in the environment.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Historically, pentachlorophenol has been used extensively as a wood preservative to protect timber from decay and insect damage. It has also been employed in the treatment of utility poles, railroad ties, and fence posts.
Health Effects[edit | edit source]
Exposure to pentachlorophenol can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact. It is known to be toxic to humans, with potential effects including respiratory irritation, liver damage, and neurological effects. Long-term exposure has been associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
Pentachlorophenol is persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the food chain. It poses a risk to aquatic life and can contaminate soil and water sources. Due to its environmental and health risks, the use of pentachlorophenol has been restricted or banned in many countries.
Regulation[edit | edit source]
In the United States, the use of pentachlorophenol is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is classified as a restricted-use pesticide, meaning it can only be used by certified applicators.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD