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chemical agents to be used in war were chlorine, phosgene, hydrogen cyanide, and mustard gas. A number of others were developed in the period between the World Wars. In an effort to develop the perfect pesticide, the Germans began to discover the toxic properties of phosphorous compounds in 1932, and by 1939 a full-scale automated production plant was in place to produce these chemical agents. Tens of thousands of tons of CWAs had been manufactured by the end of World War II.

 

Generally speaking, CWAs are characterized by the following traits and behaviors:

They usually take the forms of liquids when containerized, although they are normally disseminated in gas form or using an aerosol. They usually present a hazard when either inhaled into the lungs or in contact with the skin. In many cases, they are detectable by the senses (with many having a strong and distinctive odor). Their use is strongly influenced by environmental and weather conditions (e.g., the temperature, the amount of wind or humidity present).

 

Many of these traits and behaviors also apply to chemical agents used by terrorists, with the chief difference being that CWAs are typically manufactured for the express purpose of using in warfare while terrorists often employ agents fabricated for different purposes, including industrial chemicals and homemade agents. In the case of all agents, they can enter the body through multiple routes including contact with the skin and eyes, inhalation through the respiratory tract, injection, and ingestion.

 

 

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