Cyanuric Acid (chemical formula: C₃H₃N₃O₃) is a heterocyclic compound that consists of a triazine ring (a six-membered ring with alternating nitrogen and carbon atoms) with three carboxylic acid groups (-COOH) attached. It is a white crystalline solid that is relatively insoluble in water and has a mild, weakly acidic nature.
Key Properties:
- Appearance: Cyanuric acid is a white crystalline powder or solid.
- Schmelzpunkt: It has a high melting point of around 330°C (626°F).
- Solubility: Cyanuric acid has low solubility in water, but it dissolves in strong bases and in hot water.
- Odor: It is odorless.
- Stability: Cyanuric acid is stable under normal conditions but may degrade under high temperatures or in the presence of strong acids or bases.
Common Uses:
- Swimming Pools: One of the most common uses of cyanuric acid is as a stabilizer for chlorine in swimming pools. It helps prevent the degradation of chlorine by ultraviolet (UV) light, thus extending the effectiveness of chlorine as a disinfectant. Cyanuric acid binds with chlorine to form a stable compound, which gradually releases chlorine to maintain a safe water quality.
- Herbicide Production: Cyanuric acid is used as a precursor in the production of some herbicides and pesticides, particularly those in the triazine class, such as atrazine. These compounds are widely used in agriculture for weed control.
- Industrial and Chemical Manufacturing: It is used in the synthesis of other chemicals, including biocides, plastics, and resins. Cyanuric acid is also used in the production of melamine, a chemical important in making plastics and adhesives.
- Melamine Resin: Cyanuric acid is a precursor in the manufacture of melamine resin, a durable plastic used in products such as laminates, coatings, and kitchenware.
- Water Treatment: In some cases, cyanuric acid is used as a scavenger for metal ions and can assist in maintaining water quality in cooling towers and industrial water treatment systems.
Safety and Environmental Considerations:
- Health Risks: Cyanuric acid itself is relatively low in toxicity; Jedoch, when it is used in pools or other water systems, improper handling or overuse can cause problems. High levels of cyanuric acid in pool water can cause chlorine lock, where the chlorine is not effective in sanitizing, leading to the potential growth of algae and bacteria.
Inhalation oder ingestion of cyanuric acid in significant amounts can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, Haut, and eyes, but acute toxicity is generally low.
- Environmental Impact: Cyanuric acid can persist in the environment, especially in water systems. High levels of cyanuric acid in pool water can affect the aquatic life if discharged into rivers or lakes. It is recommended that cyanuric acid be managed and disposed of properly to minimize its environmental impact.
CAS Number: 108-80-5
The CAS number for cyanuric acid is 108-80-5, which is used for its identification in scientific, regulatory, and industrial contexts.
Conclusion:
Cyanuric acid is a versatile chemical, most notably used as a chlorine stabilizer in swimming pools and a precursor in the production of agricultural chemicals and plastics. While it is relatively low in toxicity, it requires careful management, particularly in water systems, to ensure safety and environmental protection.
