Pentachlorophenol - Definition

Pentachlorophenol (C_{6HCl5O) is a man-made (i.e., it does not otherwise occur in nature) fungicide which is a organochloride. It is toxic to humans.}

It was once used as a pesticide and wood preservative.

In 1984 (or 1987 — references vary) , the purchase and use of pentachlorophenol was restricted in the United States, and the general public may no longer buy it. It is has industrial use as a wood preservative for utility poles, railroad ties, and wharf pilings.

External links and references

• EPA on Pentachlorophenol (http://www.epa.gov/safewater/contaminants/dw_contamfs/pentachl.html)
• atsdr.cdc.gov/ on Pentachlorophenol (http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts51.html#bookmark02)
• More on Pentachlorophenol (http://www.hclrss.demon.co.uk/pentachlorophenol.html)