phosgene

views updated May 18 2018

phos·gene / ˈfäsjēn/ • n. Chem. a colorless poisonous gas, COCl2, made by the reaction of chlorine and carbon dioxide. It was used as a poison gas, notably in World War I.

phosgene

views updated Jun 27 2018

phosgene (carbonyl chloride, COCl2) Colourless, toxic gas. It was used as a poison gas in World War I but is now used in the manufacture of various dyestuffs and resins. Properties: b.p. 8.2°C (46.8°F); m.p. –118°C (–180.5°F).

phosgene

views updated Jun 11 2018

phosgene (fos-jeen) n. a poisonous gas developed during World War I. It is a choking agent, acting on the lungs to produce oedema, with consequent respiratory and cardiac failure.