Phenyldichloroarsine

History

PD was prepared during 1917–18 in Germany and France, during World War II it was prepared in Germany.

Chemical characteristics

General

Phenyldichloroarsine is an odorless, colorless substance that can form hydrochloric acid upon contact with water. Another product of hydrolysis is phenylarsenious acid, which is a severe irritant to the mucous membranes and skin. In an impure state, phenyldichloroarsine may have a slight brown color, in its purest form though there is no color and the substance has an oily texture.

Phenyldichloroarsine is one of four organic arsenicals, the other three are lewisite (L), methyldichloroarsine (MD), and ethyldichloroarsine (ED). PD is considered an analog of lewisite. The compound has a C-metalloid bond between the phenyl group and the arsenic and two covalent bonds between the arsenic and the chlorine.

Synthesis

Phenyldichloroarsine is produced by reacting benzene with arsenic trichloride. Anhydrous aluminum chloride acts as a catalyst in this reaction.

Uses

Phenyldichloroarsine is an obsolete chemical warfare agent and is classified as a vesicant or a vomiting/incapacitating agent. Phenyldichloroarsine is an arsenical vesicant which can be mixed with mustard agents for use in chemical warfare. PD was developed for use in wet environments, because of its tendency to persist in cool and shaded areas. Phenyldichloroarsine can have a persistence lasting anywhere from 2 to 7 days under usual environmental conditions. In open areas, it is more useful as a vomiting agent but in closed-in areas, such as basements, trenches and caves, it is highly effective because of its "extreme" vapor density. Phenyldichloroarsine has also been used by banks and other high-security facilities to defend against security breaches.

Biological effects

PD damages the eyes, lungs, throat and nasal membranes. or as long as 32 hours depending upon the concentration of the dose.

The molecular toxicology of PD is not well understood,

References

References

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11. (August 1986). "Interaction of Phenyldicholoroarsine with Biological Molecules". Department of Chemistry - [[Clemson University]] for [[U.S. Army]], Letterman Army Institute of Research.