Pentachlorophenol Analysis

Pentachlorophenol is a non-naturally occurring chemical compound developed in a laboratory environment. Pure pentachlorophenol exists as colorless crystals. Impure pentachlorophenol, on the other hand, is dark gray to brown in color, occurs as a powder or flake, and is often found in hazardous landfills.

People are often exposed to impure pentachlorophenol. Pentachlorophenol has been widely used as a pesticide and wood preservative. However, the intake and use of pentachlorophenol has been restricted since 1984. It is still used industrially as a wood preservative for utility poles, railroad ties and scaffolding piles.

Pentachlorophenol is recognized as a possible human carcinogen and exposure to high levels has other health risks as well.

In fact, pentachlorophenol is an old generation pest control agent. It has been used since the 1930s as an insecticide and a defoliant before crops are harvested. In the following years, it was used as a wood protector, especially in telephone poles. It has also been used as a biocide in numerous agricultural and industrial uses. Pentachlorophenol is obtained by chlorinating phenol at high temperature. In the commercial process, chlorination is not done much and more Contains toxic impurities. This compound is sparingly soluble in water and decomposes slowly in nature.

The widespread toxicity and environmental threats of pentachlorophenol are known today and severe use restrictions are imposed. Today, the only use allowed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is to preserve wood. Recently, it has been discussed to ban it completely. Environmental groups have been pushing the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for more than 20 years to ban pentachlorophenol.

A standard based on laboratory analysis is the ISO 15320 standard developed by the International Standards Organization (ISO). This standard describes a test method for the determination of pentachlorophenol in an aqueous extract of pulp, paper and board (ISO 15320 Pulp, paper and board - Determination of pentachlorophenol in an aqueous extract). Although this standard was developed for paper and cardboard intended to come into contact with foodstuffs, it applies to all types of pulp, paper and cardboard.

Our organization also provides pentachlorophenol analysis services with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.