Thursday July 1, 2010 - Vol. IX Issue 6

Technically Speaking

Phosgene is a toxic gas once used as a chemical warfare agent during World War I and continues to be used by industry in the synthesis of plastics and other chemicals. Over one billion pounds of phosgene are used by industry in the United States annually. The gas can also be generated inadvertently during fires involving plastics and other chemicals and solvents containing chlorine, which is of concern to emergency responders. Phosgene is particularly insidious because if inhaled the person might experience initial respiratory tract irritation, feel fine later, and then die a day later of choking because of fluid buildup in the lungs (delayed onset noncardiogenic pulmonary edema).(FULL STORY)

Just What the Doctor Ordered

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