Sodium dichloroisocyanurate

Sodium dichloroisocyanurate is a stable source of chlorine used as a disinfectant, biocide, industrial deodorant and detergent. In small doses it is common in water purification tablets/filters.

Chemistry

It is the sodium salt of dichloroisocyanuric acid. Products containing sodium dichloroisocyanurate may also contain cyanuric acid. It is white in colour, and appears as crystalised granules, powder or tablets. It is a heterocyclic ring compound which is a derivative of triazine.

It is reactive with water, urea, ammonia, reducing agents and strong bases. Reaction produces toxic fumes including chlorine gas.

Safety

Ventilation exhausts or appropriate breathing apparati should be installed wherever this chemical is handled. Protective gloves and clothing should also be worn. Exposure symptoms are coughing, sore throat, redness on skin or around eyes, burns, pain and/or loss of vision. Repeated or prolonged exposure can cause dermatitis. Indigestion should be treated with rest, water to rinse out the mouth and medical attention. Vomiting should not be induced. In firefighting, drums and containers may be cooled with water spray on condition that the substance does not come into contact with water. Spills should not be washed into any public sewage system.