Details
Paradichlorobenzene is a colorless white molecule with a strong and distinct odor. It is also known as 1,4-Dichlorobenzene and PDCB. The molecular formula is C6H4Cl2 and the molecular weight is 147g/mole. The boiling point of paradichlorobenzene is 174 degrees celsius (345F). The melting point of this molecule is 53 degrees celsius (127F). The soulubity in water is .08 g/L at 25 degrees Celsius and the vapor pressure is 4 x 10-1 (.4) mmHg at 20°C. Paradichlorobenzene turns directly from a solid to a gas at room temperature due to a process called sublimation. This molecule is non-polar so it won't dissolve in water. It is non-polar because the chlorines are at opposite sides of each other and the hydrogens are at directly across from each other as well.
Uses
Paradichlorobenzene is used in products to protect clothing away from moths and it is primary found in mothballs. It is used as a fundament control for moths, mildew, and molds. PDCB is also found in rest room toilets and trash cans as a deodorant block. This chemical has many other uses as well such as a repellant, pesticide, fungicide, and disinfectant. It serves as a precursor to other chemicals because it reacts with other molecules to create a new substance. However, it is most commonly know as an insecticidal fumigant because that is the main use for it.
Target and Non-Target Organisms
Target organisms that paradichlorobenzene attracts to are moths, mildews, insects, and molds. The Non-Target organisms are mammals. It doesn't really affect mammals because of the proteins within the cells of mammals. Researchers found that paradichlorobenzene was found in the plasma and liver tissues.
Toxicity:
Paradichlorobenzene vapors are toxic to most insects. The target organisms are molds, mildews, and insects, but paradichlorobenzene can be toxic to people and other animals. Signs of toxicity in humans for paradichlorobenzene are itching of the eyes, weakness in arms and legs, burning sensations, and nausea. It is not very toxic for humans unless a large amount of it is inhaled.