Lindane

Abstract

Lindane (γ-hexachlorocyclohexane; benzene hexachloride) is an organochlorine insecticide named after the Dutch chemist Teunis van clef Linden (1884-1965), who was the first to isolate the χ-, β- and γ-isomers of hexachlorocyclohexane in 1912 (RoDs et al., 2001). It exists as a colorless crystalline substance; its molecular formula is C6H6C16, and its molecular weight is 290.8; the chemical structure is shown in Figure 206.1. It is used in human medicine for treatment of lice infestations and scabies. It is also used as an insecticide in forestry , on fruit and vegetable crops, and for seed treatment because it degrades slowly in the environment (WHO, 2004).