Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is an anthropogenic gas, which means that it cannot be found naturally. Chlorine dioxide is most commonly used in bleaching processes of pulp, flour, and textiles, and in drinking water sanitation. The gas is highly flammable and reactive, and poses both a fire and explosion hazard. Industrial Scientific offers the GasBadge® Pro personal single-gas detector and the MX6 iBrid® personal multi-gas detector as popular gas monitors to keep workers safe in areas where chlorine dioxide gas may be present, including confined spaces, where explosive concentrations of the gas may accumulate.
Hazard: |
Flammable |
Will not explode |
Classification: |
Health |
Extremely toxic |
|
Oxidizing |
Oxidizing agent |
Synonyms: |
Anthium Dioxide, Chlorine Oxide, Chlorine Peroxide |
|
Exposure limits: |
(OSHA) |
PEL\TWA: 0.1 ppm |
|
(ACGIH) |
STEL: 3 ppm |
|
(OSHA) |
IDLH: 5 ppm |
Industries: |
Pulp and Paper Mills, Waste Water Treatment Plants |
Chlorine Dioxide is a red-yellow or orange-green gas with an unpleasant irritating odor similar to chlorine and nitric acid. It is best known for its biocide and disinfectant properties. Can remain rather stable in the dark but can become very unstable in the light. Chlorine Dioxide will react or form an explosive compound if exposed to a spark, impact, sunlight or rapid heating of up to 100°C. Chlorine Dioxide may also react with carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, mercury, and some nonmetals as well. ClO2 combined with water will form hydrochloric acid, and it has a very strong irritating effect on the upper respiratory tract.
Effects of Various CLO2 Levels |
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Chlorine Dioxide Level in PPM |
Resulting Conditions on Humans |
|
.1 |
Odor threshold and Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). |
|
.25 |
Worsen exciting mild respiratory ailments. |
|
.3 |
Short Term Exposure Level (STEL). |
|
5 |
Marked irritation occurs of the respiratory tract. |
|
>5 |
Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat; cough; wheezing; shortness of breath; bronchitis; pulmonary edema; headache; vomiting. |
|
Source: American Industrial Hygiene Association |
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