Mothball Ingredients
Mothballs are insecticidal pellets that are commonly used to eradicate moths and other unwanted pests. Made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, the small marble-sized orbs are placed in sealed containers or confined spaces, such as closets, where they emit toxic fumes that kill insects and small pests. Does this Spark an idea?
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Naphthalene
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Naphthalene is a white, crystalline substance that gives off a particularly pungent aroma; these odoriferous vapors are extremely toxic and can kill small creatures such as moths and silverfish. While it is an effective pesticide, naphthalene is also highly flammable; consequently, it has fallen out of favor. Nowadays, mothballs are made from paradichlorobenzene. Those made from naphthalene can be still be found; however, naphthalene-based mothballs may be old and out-of-date.
Paradichlorobenzene
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Paradicholorbenzene is the newer, safer version of naphthalene. It works in a similar manner, emitting toxic fumes that effectively remove insects from the closet, attic and dresser drawers; but it is less flammable and slightly less toxic to humans and animals.
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Use
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When exposed to light and air, both naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene go directly from a solid form to a gaseous one; a process known as sublimation. To put mothballs to use, simply scatter them in the desired area, then seal the space - or restrict the airflow as much as possible. As the chemicals sublimate, the vapors build up, filling the air with toxic fumes that will kill any insects that happen to be in the area.
Warning
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Mothballs are extremely toxic. Both people and animals can be harmed by ingestion of mothballs or from exposure to high concentrations of fumes. Use caution when opening storage containers, as unsealing the containers release the fumes into the open air, and never use mothballs in areas that are regularly accessed by children or pets.
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References
- Oregon State University Extension; Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths; D. Stone, et al; May 2008
- U.S. Department of Energy: Ask a Scientist- Mothball Effectiveness and Ingredients
- Eco- USA; Naphthalene; Michael Habeck
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Paradichlorobenzene Poisoning; David Zieve, et al; February 2009
