Paradichlorobenzene pesticide molecule, computer artwork. Paradichlorobenzene, also known as 1,4- dichlorobenzene, is used in mothballs, to control mould and mildew, and to deodorise rooms and containers. It is a solid at room temperature, but when exposed to air it sublimes into a vapour that is poisonous to insects. Prolonged exposure can also be harmful to human health, resulting in headaches and dizziness, and ultimately anaemia and kidney and liver failure. Atoms are represented by coloured spheres; carbon is blue, hydrogen is white and chlorine is green.