b-Hexachlorocyclohexane

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A colorless, sand-like powder that emits toxic fumes of phosgene gas, hydrochloric acid and other chlorinated compounds when heated to decomposition. b-Hexachlorocyclohexane is the beta-isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane and is used as an insecticide. Inhalation exposure to this substance causes severe irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs; causes anemia, and affects the liver, kidneys, nervous system, cardiovascular system and immune system. b-Hexachlorocyclohexane is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - 1a,2b,3a,4b,5a,6b-Hexachlorocyclohexane - b-Benzene Hexachloride - b-HCH - b-Hexachlorobenzene - b-Lindane