ABSTRACT
Pulmonary agents have been stockpiled by most countries that have pursued a chemical weapons program, and have been used a number of times on the battlefield. Pulmonary agents are primarily respiratory irritants. Pulmonary agents are primarily an inhalation hazard. Pulmonary effects are usually delayed from 2 to 24 hours. Exposure to very high concentrations may produce immediate symptoms. Most pulmonary agents are either volatile liquids or gases. Pulmonary agents have been absorbed into porous powders and disseminated as dust clouds. Pulmonary agents are stable when stored dry. For military purposes, pulmonary agents are classified as non-persistent. Pulmonary agents have limited solubility in water and many decompose rapidly in contact with moisture or with water.
