Clothes made from natural fibers (wool, cotton) have a No. 1 enemy, moths. These corrode the tissue causing irreversible damage. But there is a very old solution to this problem, dating back to your great-grandparents: mothballs. This substance has as its main function to kill moths and their larvae with the vapors it gives off.
Let's get to know the chemical side of mothballs?
Mothball structural formula
Molecular formula: C10H8.
Note that the structure is formed by two benzene rings, which makes naphthalene belong to the group of aromatic compounds. It has the property of sublimation (transition from solid to gaseous state directly), and that is exactly why it becomes efficient in combating moths. But, unfortunately, the exhaled vapor is toxic not only to micro-organisms, but to everyone who inhales it.
Tips for using mothballs:
• For the use of mothballs to be efficient and at the same time safe, put it together with the clothes in a sealed package, in this way it does not pose any danger. Toxic vapors are contained and only moths will be affected with the minimum amount of product.
• Do not immediately wear clothes after taking them out of the closet, leave them exposed in an airy place one day before using them.
• Do not open the package, but if by chance it breaks, discard the product.
Symptoms and consequences of mothball poisoning:
- Irritation to eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
- Severe headaches, mental confusion and liver and kidney damage.
- Prolonged exposure to the product may increase the risk of cataracts.
The danger can be even greater if children mistake white mothballs for edible candies. Ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea and seizures.
Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms upon contact with the product, seek medical attention immediately.
With all this information you should already have an answer to the question: is mothballs bad?
It is not good for you to breathe this chemical regularly.
By Líria Alves
Graduated in Chemistry
Brazil School Team
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See more!
Reaction with mothballs – experimental class involving mothballs.
Chemistry Curiosities - Chemistry - Brazil School
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SOUZA, Líria Alves de. "Is mothballs bad?"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/quimica/naftalina-faz-mal.htm. Accessed on June 28, 2021.
