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Characterization of the Products Formed by the Reaction of Trichlorocyanuric Acid with 2‐Propanol
Author(s) -
Sandercock P. Mark L.,
Barnett Julie S.
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2009.01181.x
Subject(s) - isopropyl alcohol , chemistry , chlorine , hydrochloric acid , alcohol , organic chemistry
We report a recent investigation into the death of a cat that was initially thought to involve intentionally burning the animal via the use of an ignitable liquid. The exposure of the animal to flame was ruled out. Instead, forensic investigation revealed the intentional mixing together of a common outdoor swimming pool chlorinator, trichlorocyanuric acid (TCCA), and 2‐propanol (aka, isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol). The reaction of these two chemicals resulted in the formation of cyanuric acid residue, hydrochloric acid, and the evolution of a significant volume of chlorine gas. Further α‐chlorination side reactions also occurred between 2‐propanol and TCCA to produce a variety of chlorinated 2‐propanone species that were detected on the submitted evidence. The identification of the products of both the main reaction and the side reactions allowed the authors to determine what chemicals were originally mixed together by the culprit.