Medical Aspects of Chemical Warfare (2008) - The Black Vault

Chemical Defense Equipmenttuses previously employed in spray-down proceduresassociated with operational decontamination. EachM100 system consists of two 0.7-lb packs of reactivesorbent powder, two wash mitt-type sorbent applicators,a case, straps, and detailed instructions (Figure17-30). The system uses the same nontoxic and noncorrosivereactive sorbent powder as in the M295 kit toremove and neutralize chemical agent from surfaces.The sorbent powder is first poured onto the palm ofthe mitt, then the mitt is used to rub and wipe thecontaminated surfaces until target areas are visuallydry. The system removes gross liquid contamination,limits the spread of chemical agent, preserves the integrityof MOPP gear, and minimizes casualties whiledecreasing decontamination time and eliminating theneed for water. 32–35M17 Lightweight Decontamination SystemThe M17 lightweight decontamination system isa rugged, simple-to-use, powerful, multipurpose CBsystem for decontaminating and preserving militarymateriel in a contaminated environment. The systemis designed to draw water from any source and deliverit to the two installed spray wands at pressures up to100 psi and temperatures up to 120°C (Figure 17-31).The M17 can also be used as a personnel showeringsystem and for cleaning vehicles and food handlingand hospital equipment. 32–35The M17 is capable of dispensing Easy DECON 200(Envirofoam Technologies Inc, Huntsville, Ala) as aliquid or as a foam (using a foam nozzle), and it canbe used in an anticorrosion mode. It is designed forease of operation, with one soldier operating each ofits two outfitted wands. The M17 has a 3,000-galloncollapsible water tank that can be prepositionedand filled for hot water showers or hospital use. 38,39A diesel version—a portable, lightweight, compact,engine-driven pump and multifuel-fired water heatingsystem—is under development and will be capableof performing the same immediate and operationaldecontamination procedures as required of any of theM17 series systems. 32–35Decontamination Methods in DevelopmentA need still exists for an effective and environmentallysafe reactive decontaminant that does notharm equipment and personnel. Bacterial enzymes,catalytic-type compounds, and other stable decontaminants(eg, quaternary ammonium complexes) areunder consideration. Sorbent compounds and nonaqueousdecontaminants are also being investigatedfor use on electronic components and other sensitiveequipment. 1 A joint platform interior decontaminationsystem is being investigated for use in decontaminat-Fig. 17-30. The M100 sorbent decontamination systemprovides vehicle and crew-served weapon (≥ .50 caliber)operators the capability to perform operator wipe-down(previously referred to as operator spray-down) during immediatedecontamination operations.Photograph: Courtesy of the Chemical Casualty Care Division,US Army Medical Research Institute of ChemicalDefense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md.Fig.17-31. The M17 lightweight decontamination system. Thesystem is designed to decontaminate equipment but can alsobe used as a personnel showering system.Photograph: Courtesy of the Chemical Casualty Care Division,US Army Medical Research Institute of ChemicalDefense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Md.583