Chemical agents

Chemical agents are substances which, through their chemical properties, produce a harmful effect on living organisms. They are used in a variety of fields, including medicine, agriculture, and military warfare.

Types of Chemical Agents

Chemical agents can be classified into several types, including:

• Nerve agents: These are the most toxic of the known chemical agents. They work by disrupting the mechanisms by which nerves transfer messages to organs. Examples include sarin, soman, and VX.

• Blister agents: Also known as vesicants, these cause severe skin, eye and mucosal pain and damage. Examples include mustard gas and lewisite.

• Blood agents: These are designed to be absorbed into the blood and deprive the body's cells of oxygen. Examples include hydrogen cyanide and cyanogen chloride.

• Choking agents: These cause damage to the respiratory system, often leading to a build-up of fluid in the lungs. Examples include phosgene and chlorine gas.

• Incapacitating agents: These are designed to incapacitate a person or group of people, rather than cause death. Examples include BZ and fentanyl.

Effects of Chemical Agents

The effects of chemical agents can range from temporary incapacitation to death, depending on the type of agent and the level of exposure. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, blurred vision, vomiting, skin burns, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.

Protection and Decontamination

Protection against chemical agents typically involves the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gloves, and suits. Decontamination procedures can include removal of clothing, washing with soap and water, and application of decontaminating solutions.

See Also

• Chemical warfare
• Chemical Weapons Convention
• List of chemical warfare agents