Development of reactive topical skin protectants against sulfur mustard and nerve agents

Abstract : The purpose of the Phase I Research was to investigate the feasibility of using Nantek's unique reactive nanoparticle (RNP) adsorbents as the active ingredient in a skin cream system for the protection against exposure to sulfur mustard and nerve agents. The scope of the work included: (1) study of mimic reactions with a broad array of adsorbents; (2) new adsorbent formulation development; (3) adsorbent-cream compatibility studies; (4) prototype skin system testing; and (5) reaction studies with actual nerve and mustard agents. Overall technical feasibility was established with the following major findings include: (1) RNP adsorbents are highly reactive and in some instances nearly instantaneously destroyed VX and its mimics; (2) actual evidence of decomposition and not merely absorption was observed; (3) HD and its mimics are partially decomposed by the RNP adsorbents suggesting the need for further optimization of the adsorbent formulations in Phase II; and (4) the most efficient RNP adsorbents demonstrated chemical compatibility and reactivity when embedded in the selected base cream.