New Concepts of Prophylaxis and Decontamination of Chemical Warfare Agents

Abstract

Contemporary Chemical Warfare Agents (CWA) are easy absorbed from the body surface and quickly cause the onset of symptoms of intoxication. Therefore the proper body protection against CWA is of key importance. The military chemical protective clothing include garments, gloves, boots, coveralls with head gear, and fully encapsulating suits. Modern technology has ensured that all of these can be fabricated from materials that have a high degree of resistance to penetration by toxic chemicals, so that the wearer is well protected. It is widely stated that the heat stress posed by protective clothing is such that a person cannot wear it in hot climates and do anything useful. By extension, it is stated that a chemical aggressor can force the defending troops into protective clothing and thus immobilize them. Therefore, it is reasonable to employ and improve lighter kinds of body protection not reducing soldier operational efficacy.