Paradichlorobenzene (p-dichlorobenzene / 1,4-dichlorobenzene, CAS 106-46-7) is a solid aromatic chemical with a strong characteristic odor. Its main uses include:
1. Mothballs and moth repellents – used to protect clothes and fabrics from moths and other insects.
2. Toilet/deodorizer blocks – used in some solid toilet and urinal deodorizing blocks because it slowly sublimates and masks odors.
3. Air fresheners/deodorizers – particularly in industrial or institutional odor-control products.
4. Intermediate in chemical manufacturing – used as a starting material/intermediate for producing other chemicals.
5. Pest-control applications – historically used in certain fumigant applications, although many such uses are restricted or discontinued in various countries.