Thermal and catalytic methods used for destruction of chemical warfare agents

Abstract

The decontamination of chemical warfare agents (CWAs) from structures, environmental media and even personnel has become an area of particular interest in recent years due to increased homeland security concerns. This article reviews applications of catalytic methods used for decontamination of CWAs. Most attention was given to the following methods: thermocatalysis, photocatalysis and enzyme catalysis among the many methods of catalytic CWA decomposition. Unfortunately, there are not enough data obtained with real CWAs due to the difficulty in handling, so we have described also data available for CWAs simulants. These methods can be useful for decontamination systems that can reduce the damage caused by possible terrorism.

Modified-TiO2 Photocatalyst Supported on β-SiC Foams for the Elimination of Gaseous Diethyl Sulfide as an Analog for Chemical Warfare Agent: Towards the Development of a Photoreactor Prototype

“…. ) [6,7]. Amongst possible methods for destruction of CWAs, photocatalytic oxidation is an alternative one [8,9].…”

Quantum Calculations of VX Ammonolysis and Hydrolysis Pathways via Hydrated Lithium Nitride

“…Oxidation requires large excesses of oxidizing agents and is not very selective [6,14]. Enzymes used in CWA degradation are not stable and cannot be stored for long periods of time [15]. Hydrolysis often uses a large quantity of water [14].…”

Catalytic Processes for the Neutralization of Sulfur Mustard

“…To date, the total combustion of chemical warfare agents at high temperature (> 1000 8C) is the main remediation method and dedicated plants were established, notably in the US. [8] Combustion of sulfur mustard produces water and carbond ioxide but also hydrogen chloride and sulfur dioxide, which are toxic by inhalation. As ar esult,t he developmento f" green" processes for complete and selectivec onversion of sulfur mustard to non-toxic derivatives, while generating limited amounts of waste and side-products, are still sought.…”

“…To date, the total combustion of chemical warfare agents at high temperature (>1000 °C) is the main remediation method and dedicated plants were established, notably in the US [8] . Combustion of sulfur mustard produces water and carbon dioxide but also hydrogen chloride and sulfur dioxide, which are toxic by inhalation.…”