What Is Endrin?
Figure 1. Structure of endrin
Endrin is an organic compound with the chemical formula C12C8Cl6O.
Another name for endrin is 1,2,3,4,10,10-hexachloro-6,7-epoxy-1,4,4a,5,6,7,8,8a-octahydro-endo-1,4-endo-5,8-dimethanonaphthalene.
Endrin was mainly used as a pesticide to control pests in vegetables and fruit trees, as well as a rat poison. It is a persistent organic pollutant and its use as an agricultural chemical is now banned.
The Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants prohibits the manufacture and use of the substance. In Japan, standard values for residues in food products have been established.
Uses of Endrin
Endrin was used as a pesticide and rodenticide until the 1970s. However, its persistence in the environment causes long-term toxicity and bioaccumulation. The use of endrin is currently prohibited in Japan and many foreign countries.
Properties of Endrin
| Chemical formula | C12H8Cl6O |
| Japanese name | Endrin |
| English name | Endrin |
| CAS No. | 72-20-8 |
| Molecular weight | 380.91 g/mol |
| Melting point/Freezing point | 226-230°C |
| Boiling point or first distillation point and boiling range | Decomposes at 245°C below boiling point |
1. Solubility of Endrin
Endrin is insoluble in water. However, it is soluble in organic solvents such as acetone, benzene, and xylene. It is also slightly soluble in hexane and carbon tetrachloride.
2. Stereoisomers of Endrin
Figure 2. Stereoisomeric structure of endrin
The stereoisomeric structure of endrin is dieldrin. Dieldrin is also regulated as a persistent organic pollutant.
Other Information on Endrin
1. Hazardous Properties of Endrin
Acute toxicity and specific target organ toxicity are reported as health hazards. Extreme caution is required because ingestion of endrin orally or dermally is life-threatening. It is also highly toxic to aquatic organisms.
2. Precautions for Use of Endrin
Endrin is acutely toxic both dermally and orally. Therefore, the use of respiratory protection, protective gloves, eyewear, and clothing is recommended when handling it.
Store any unused endrin in an appropriate location away from fire sources. Comply with all applicable laws and regulations for safe transport.
3. Disposal Methods
Endrin is regulated as a compound that must not be released into the environment. When disposing of endrin, ask a specialized waste disposal contractor to dispose of the product properly.