Alpha and Beta-Hexachlorocyclohexanes - Environmental Health Criteria 123

Alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane (alpha-HCH) is a major by-product (65-70%) in the manufacture of lindane (> 99% gamma-HCH). Its solubility in water is low, but it is very soluble in organic solvents such as acetone, chloroform, and xylene. It is a solid with a low vapour pressure. The n-octanol/water partition coefficient (log Pow) is 3.82. It is an environmental pollutant.