Blood agents Arsine

Arsine blood agents were first developed for battlefield use during World War I. Due to difficulties with dispersion, they were never used. Arsenic, however, has potential use as a terror agent (Ellison, 2008 Sidell et al, 1997). 

Another blood agent is arsine (SA) which is a colorless, flammable, extremely poisonous gas. 

Blood agents. These agents are absorbed into the blood and interfere with the oxygen carrying capacity, e.g. arsine, cyanides, carbon monoxide, etc. 

Blood agents Also known as cyanogens, they include arsine (SA), cyanogen chloride (CK), and hydrogen chloride (AC), and are transported in the bloodstream through the body. Blood agents do not typically affect the blood but may interrupt the production of blood components and cause toxic effect at the cellular level. 

Arsenical Blood Agents are gases or solids. Gases are colorless with a mild garlic-like odor. Effects from cumulative exposure may occur at levels below tlie odor threshold. Solids produce arsine gas (AsH,) when they come into contact with moisture. 

Gaseous Arsenical Blood Agents are nonpersistent. Solid agents will retain the potential to produce arsine (AsHg) until they react with water. 

Due to the volatile nature of gaseous Arsenical Blood Agents, there is minimal extended risk except in an enclosed or confined space. Solid agents pose an extended risk in that agents will retain the potential to produce arsine gas (AsHg) until they react with water. Vapors have a density greater than air and tend to collect in low places. Most agents have minimal solubility in water. 

Arsenical Blood Agents are incompatible with strong oxidizers and various metals (e.g., aluminum, copper, brass, nickel). Arsenical Blood Agents may decompose on exposure to light to produce hydrogen gas and arsenic metal. Solid agents will react with water to form arsine gas (ASH3). 

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