Phosgene detection
Phosgene became sadly famous because it was used as a combat gas in the First World War.
Today, it is an important raw material for numerous syntheses, both in the pharmaceutical and plastics sectors. Our modern lifestyle would be inconceivable without plastics that require phosgene for their production! Just think of polycarbonates such as Makrolon (CDs, car parts such as bumpers and mechanical parts) or polyurethanes (foams, paints, adhesives and even mattresses and upholstery).
Phosgene production
As a rule, phosgene is produced from CO (carbon monoxide) and Cl2 (chlorine) at high pressure, high temperature and with the aid of catalysts.
Phosgene toxicity
The toxic effect of phosgene is mainly due to inhalation. It damages the blood-air barrier in the lungs. The consequences are severe irritation and even pulmonary oedema, which can be fatal. The fact that phosgene exposure does not immediately lead to symptoms is particularly insidious. When measuring phosgene, it is of course important to record the concentration in order to be able to take protective measures for employees in good time. However, when measuring phosgene, the dose ingested must also be recorded individually so that the emergency doctor can decide on the appropriate therapy.
Measure phosgene
Compur Monitors is a technological leader in the measurement of phosgene. Electrochemical sensors and colourimetric systems are used. The Monitox, Statox 501, Statox 502, Statox 505 and, above all, Statox 560 with self-test device families are very well established on the market. The tracer can measure phosgene in the range of just a few ppb.
Dr. Josef von Stackelberg
Managing Director COMPUR MONITORS GmbH & Co. KG
Contact us without obligation
Do you have any questions about our products or would you like a non-binding consultation? We look forward to hearing from you.