Health / Medical Topics |
3-Chloro-2-methylpropene
A synthetic, flammable, volatile, colorless to straw-colored liquid that is insoluble in water and soluble in chloroform, acetone, alcohol, ether and benzene. It is used primarily as a chemical intermediate in the production of carbofuran, a carbamate insecticide; used in the production of herbicides, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and other organic as well as an additive in textiles and perfumes. When heated to decomposition, it emits toxic fumes of hydrochloric acid and other chlorinated compounds. Contact exposure of this substance causes irritation of the eyes and skin. Inhalation can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract and depression of the central nervous system. Breathing at high levels of 3-chloro-2-methylpropene vapors may induce coughing, gasping, breathing difficulties and extreme respiratory distress, even coma. It is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI Thesaurus)