Dioxin

Description

An extremely potent environmental hazard. Dioxin, or TCDD, is an unfortunate pollutant produced in the production and incineration of PVC plastics, chlorinated solvents, chlorinated pesticides, and chlorine bleached paper. It was also a contaminant in the defoliant, Agent Orange, that was used in Vietnam in the 1960's. Dioxin compounds are fat-soluble and have been found in almost all areas of the globe from humans to the depths of the oceans. For a short period, the name Dioxin was also used as a brand label for Dimethoxane.

Synonyms and Related Terms

TCDD; TCDBD; 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenxo-p-dioxin; Agent Orange

Composition	C12H4Cl4O2
CAS	1746-01-6
Melting Point	295-325
Molecular Weight	mol. wt. = 321.96

Hazards and Safety

Toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Carcinogenic. Teratogenic.

Hazardous to environment: animals, birds, and fish.