Lesson 2/Learning Event 1
The numbers printed on each ampoule and on the back of the lewisite tablet marking pad are
sequence numbers. They help indicate the order in which the different tests are performed.
On the other side of the samplers are references to the instructions provided and color indicators.
The indicators show what colors the test spots should be if different chemical agents are present.
They also show what colors the test spots should be if no chemical agent is present. The indicators
can be matched against the colors appearing on the test spots to determine if a safe or dangerous
condition exists.
M18A2 Chemical Agent Detector Kit
The M18A2 Chemical Agent Detector Kit (called the M18 kit) is issued to the headquarters and
headquarters company of a battalion when there is an assigned chemical NCO to operate the kit.
Detailed operating instructions are contained in Subcourse CM 1301, Chemical Agent Warning and
Detection.
Purpose. The M18 kit is designed primarily for detecting concentrations of vapors, aerosols, and
liquid droplets of chemical agents. The M18 kit is employed in reconnaissance and monitoring of
suspected contaminated areas. It also is used to find the boundaries of contaminated areas.
Capabilities. The M18 kit can detect all known chemical agents. In addition, the kit can be used to
collect samples of unknown chemical agents to be sent to a chemical laboratory for analysis. The
contents of the kit are sufficient for 10 complete tests. The M18 kit can detect the following known
chemical agents:
Mustards- H, HD, HN, HT
Phosgene oxime - CX
Blood agents - AC, CK
Phosgene- CG
Lewisite- L
Ethyl dichloroarsine- ED
Methyl dichloroarsine- MD
Nerve agents - V and G
Limitations. Using the M18 kit is very time-consuming. Because of the size of its components, the
kit is difficult to use while the operator is wearing protective gloves.
Description. The components of the M18 kit are described below and illustrated in figure 10 on
page 28.
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