polychlorinated terphenyl

File:Polychlorinated terphenyl.png

Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCTs) are a group of chlorine derivatives of terphenyls. They are chemically related to polychlorinated biphenyls and have similar chemical properties. They have very low electrical conductivity, high heat stability, and high resistance to alkalies and strong acids.{{ cite web | url = http://www.unece.org/env/lrtap/TaskForce/popsxg/2000-2003/pct.pdf | title = Polychlorinated terphenyls | author = Filyk, G. | publisher = United Nations Economic Commission for Europe | date = 2011-07-01 }} They are non-flammable and insoluble in water.

Typically produced and used as mixtures with varying degrees of chlorination, PCTs were once used as heat transfer agents in electric transformers, as plasticizers, as lubricating oils, and as flame retardants.{{ cite journal | url = http://www.epa.gov/oppt/chemtest/pubs/notes20.pdf | journal = Federal Register | volume = 49 | issue = 59 | date = 1984-03-26 | id = 40 CFR Part 704 Final rule | title = Chlorinated Terphenyl: Submission of Notice of Manufacture or Importation | author = U. S. Environmental Protection Agency | authorlink = U. S. Environmental Protection Agency | page = 11181 }} Their production and use has been largely phased out due to environmental and safety concerns.

International trade in PCTs is regulated by the Rotterdam Convention.