3.1 The Phosgene Molecule
Phosgene was synthesized by the British chemist John Davy (1790–1868) in 1812 by
exposing a mixture of carbon monoxide and chlorine to sunlight. He named it
"phosgene" in reference of the use of light to promote the reaction; from Greek, phos
(light) and gene (born). It gradually became important in the chemical industry as the
19th century progressed, particularly in dye manufacturing. It is also a valued industrial
reagent and building block in synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other organic
compounds.