Chlorine (Cl2)

Historically known for being used during the First World War as a chemical weapon (mustard gas), chlorine (Cl2) is widely used for its disinfectant properties as a biocide (to remove bacteria) during the water purification process. It is also used in other sectors like the chemical industry, textile and paper industries.

Chlorine effects on health

Chlorine (Cl2) is a yellow-green gas with a particularly pungent and suffocating smell. This extremely toxic gas (R23) is irritant to the skin (R38), eyes (R36) and respiratory system (R37). As it particularly reacts with water, it may form hydrochloric acid (HCl) or hypochlorous acid (HOCl) that are extremely harmful to human health and environment.