4.
Caustic Potash (Potassium Hydroxide).
Caustic Potash is very similar to Caustic Soda. It is used for the same application as Caustic Soda.
5.
Ammonia (Ammonium Hydroxide).
This is a water solution of ammonia. Ammonia or a water solution is an effective decontaminant for
several chemical agents, including G Agents. If ammonia is used, a self-contained breathing apparatus
or special purpose mask should be worn. The M17-Series Protective Mask, as well as the M24, M25,
and M25A1, does not provide protection against ammonia.
6.
Fuels and Solvents.
Fuel can be used as a solvent or applied to contaminated surfaces and ignited. Solvents, like gasoline,
kerosene, or carbon tetrachloride, are applied with swabs, taking care not to spread the contamination.
Ignited fuel destroys agents; solvents merely remove them. Sufficient solvent can dilute and remove
most of the dangerous contamination.
WARNING
DO NOT inhale fumes of solvents for prolonged periods. Dangerous vapor concentrations
that present a downwind hazard may be created during burning.
7.
Absorbents.
Absorbents are various materials which remove but do not neutralize or destroy chemical agents. Earth,
charcoal, coal dust, clay and sawdust may be used as absorbents. They are contaminated after use and
must be treated with precautions.
CAUTION
The absorbents are contaminated after use and must be buried or controlled to prevent the
spread of the agent or a vapor hazard caused by evaporation.
8.
Soap and Detergent.
An important use of soap is personnel decon. Soap or detergent dissolved in water provides a good
cleaning solution for the removal of surface contamination and for flushing dirt and grease from
contaminated surfaces. The addition of soap or detergent increases the wetting power and helps the
water to loosen contaminated dirt. Alkaline soaps or detergents in water solutions will neutralize G
Agents. Also, soap and detergent are
CM 2506
3-20
Previous Page
