Trichloroisocyanuric acid
[CAS# 87-90-1]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Synthetic anti-infective drugs >> Disinfectant antiseptic
• Name: Trichloroisocyanuric acid
• Synonyms: 1,3,5-Trichloro-1-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione; 1,3,5-Trichloroisocyanuric acid; Symclosene
• Molecular Formula: C₃Cl₃N₃O₃
• Molecular Weight: 232.41
• CAS Registry Number: 87-90-1
• EC Number: 201-782-8
• SMILES: C1(=O)N(C(=O)N(C(=O)N1Cl)Cl)Cl

Properties

• Density: 2.2±0.1 g/cm³, Calc.^*, 2.07 g/mL (expl.)
• Melting point: 249-251 °C (Expl.)
• Index of Refraction: 1.686, Calc.^*
• Boiling Point: 272.3±23.0 °C (760 mmHg), Calc.^*
• Flash Point: 118.5±22.6 °C, Calc.^*
• Water solubility: 1.2 g/100mL (25 °C)

^* Calculated using Advanced Chemistry Development (ACD/Labs) Software.

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS03;GHS05;GHS07;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H272-H302-H335-H319-H400-H410
• Safety Statements: P210-P220-P260-P261-P264-P264+P265-P270-P271-P273-P280-P301+P317-P301+P330+P331-P302+P361+P354-P304+P340-P305+P351+P338-P305+P354+P338-P316-P319-P321-P330-P337+P317-P363-P370+P378-P391-P403+P233-P405-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Oxidising solids	Ox. Sol.	2	H272
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Acute hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Acute	1	H400
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	1	H410
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1A	H314
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373

• Transport Information: UN 2468

Discovery and Applications

Trichloroisocyanuric acid is a chemical compound widely used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. It was first synthesized in the 1950s and has since become one of the most common chlorine-based compounds for sanitizing purposes. The compound is a member of the isocyanuric acid family, characterized by its three chlorine atoms attached to a triazine ring structure. Its structure allows it to release chlorine when dissolved in water, which is responsible for its disinfecting properties.

One of the primary uses of trichloroisocyanuric acid is in water treatment, particularly in swimming pools and spas. It is commonly used as a source of chlorine to disinfect pool water and maintain its clarity. Due to its stability, trichloroisocyanuric acid is favored over other chlorine-based disinfectants because it can be stored for extended periods without significant degradation. The compound is available in granular or tablet forms, making it easy to apply and manage in pool maintenance.

In addition to pool sanitization, trichloroisocyanuric acid is employed in the treatment of drinking water, where it acts as a disinfectant to eliminate harmful microorganisms. It is also used in various industrial applications, including the disinfection of cooling towers, wastewater treatment systems, and food processing facilities.

Trichloroisocyanuric acid is also used in household cleaning products, particularly those designed for disinfecting surfaces and laundry. Its powerful chlorine-releasing properties make it effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Additionally, it is often included in bleach formulations for laundry, providing a strong whitening and stain-removing effect.

The compound is also used in the textile industry for bleaching fibers, as well as in the pulp and paper industry to sanitize water used in the production process. Its ability to release chlorine in controlled amounts makes it an ideal choice for these applications, where consistent and reliable disinfection is required.

Although trichloroisocyanuric acid is highly effective as a disinfectant and bleaching agent, it must be handled with care due to its corrosive nature and potential health hazards. When dissolved in water, it releases chlorine, which can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Therefore, safety measures are important when using this compound in various applications.

The discovery and widespread use of trichloroisocyanuric acid in water treatment, sanitation, and industrial processes reflect its importance as a powerful and stable disinfectant. Its ability to release chlorine over time while maintaining its effectiveness has made it a key compound in the fields of public health, cleaning, and industrial maintenance.

References

2024. Innovative and Affordable Interventions for Water Purification in Rural Communities. Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 77(11).
DOI: 10.1007/s12666-024-03466-x