naphthalene (bituminous material)
- Scope note
- A crystalline aromatic compound (C10H8) derived from coal tar, with a molecule consisting of two fused six-membered rings and a pungent mothball smell, used in dyes, synthetic resins, explosives, insecticide, fungicide, and moth repellent. It is not recommended for general use as an insecticide because it may recrystallize on specimens and can discolor wool in the presence of moisture, and its actual effectiveness against insects is questionable. It fluoresces purple in mercury light.
- Date of creation: 18-Nov-2024
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024