From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Mirex
|
| Image:Mirex.png
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| Systematic name
| Perchloropentacyclodecane
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| Chemical formula
| C10Cl12
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| Molecular mass
| 545.55 g/mol
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| Density
| x.xxx g/cm³
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| Melting point
| xx.x °C
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| Boiling point
| xx.x °C
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| CAS number
| [2385-85-5]
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| SMILES
| ClC12C(C3(Cl)Cl)(Cl)C4(Cl)C1(Cl)C(Cl)(Cl)C5(Cl)C4(Cl)C3(Cl)C52Cl
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| Disclaimer and references
|
Mirex is a manufactured insecticide. It was used to control fire ants and as a flame retardant in plastic, rubber, paint, paper and electronics. Exposure to Mirex mainly occurs with skin contact or the ingestion of soil or food that has been in contact with the chemical Mirex. At high levels, it may cause damage to the skin, liver or the nervous and reproductive systems. Mirex has been detected even in the Arctic Ocean.
[edit] Application of Mirex
Mirex was used only in the USA for pest control, however its use was discontinued in 1978. As an insecticide, it was used as a bait to control fire ants and harvester ants. Mirex is still used in the USA mainly as a flame-retardant in plastics, rubber, paint, paper and electronics. Common trade names include Ferriamicide and Dechlorane. Mirex has never been registered for use as an insecticide in Canada.
[edit] Environmental Consequences
There are no good environmental effects for the use of Mirex, other than riding the infected area of ants. Mirex has mainly negative environmental effects.
Mirex is one of the most stable pesticides in use. When it enters the environment it begins to break down very slowly. Mirex does not evaporate from surface water or soil, nor is it soluble in water, making it stay for long periods of time. Mirex particles easily stick to soil and sediment particles, but they are not likely to leak through to the underground water. It is highly toxic to aquatic organisms, especially crustaceans.
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