Phosgene manufacture sites

An equimolar mixture of carbon monoxide and chlorine reacts at 500 K under a slight positive pressure. The reaction is extremely exothermic (Ai/gQQp. = —109.7 kJ or —26.22 kcal), and heat removal is the limiting factor in reactor design. Phosgene (qv) is often produced on-site for use in the manufacture of toluene diisocyanate (see Amines, aromatic-diaminotoluenes Isocyanates, organic). 

However, those chemical manufacturers (particularly the smaller contract manufacturer) who may not be sited near to a CO (or Cl j) producing facility may need to have alternative means of generating phosgene at their disposai, for their various processes (see Section 3.1.6). Indeed, in view of the anticipated legislation in Europe, the U.S.A., and elsewhere to control, or prohibit, the transportation of phosgene, those processes which depend upon phosgene (where it is not locally available) could be severely prejudiced in the absence of such alternatives. 

The Bhopal Accident This is probably the site of one of the greatest industrial disasters in history. Between 1977 and 1984, United Carbide India Limited, located within a crowded working class neighborhood in Bhopal, was licensed by the Madhya Pradesh State government to manufacture phosgene, monomethylamine, methylisocyanate, and the pesticide carbaryl, also known as Sevin. 

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