Engineering Development of the Simulator, Detector Tickets, Chemical Agent: Training M256 (TRAINS)
Abstract
A Simulator, Detector Tickets, Chemical Agents; Training, M256 (TRAINS) device entered engineering development on an accelerated basis. The TRAINS was developed as a training device for the M256 Chemical Agent Detector Kit. Pre-engineered color changes were incorporated into the M256 samplers to produce the color required to simulate a positive test without the use of external simulants or agents. For example, pH indicators were used as positive tests for blister agents, and the removal of cholinesterase from the nerve agent test spot for positive nerve agent tests. A variety of unexpected problems were overcome during this development program. The most important of these involved environmental considerations. The original simulation of the blood agent test incorporated potassium cyanide in the M256 glass ampules. By this means, the reactions required for the AC test were closely duplicated. However, late in the development cycle, the EPA changed regulations regarding the disposal of materials containing cyanide. Even though the amount of cyanide was well below toxic amounts, hazardous waste disposal methods more stringent than for normal waste were now required for this device. A solution was found by simply substituting the same pH indicators used in the test simulation for blister agents for the test simulation for original blood agents.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADB104935
Entities
People
- Lionel Katzoff
- Marie Razulis
Organizations
- Edgewood Chemical Biological Center