The US has used White Phosphorous in the siege of Fallujah and other places Im sure. Meanwhile the Israelis use it against the Palestinian population. Effects: Direct skin contact can lead to thermal burns and chemical burns. WP particles react with oxygen and can cause 2nd and 3rd degree thermal burns. The particles can also enter the body through the burns or other wounds and continue to damage tissues. Chemical burns result from several different compounds produced through WP reactions. These include phosphorus pentoxide which can react with the water in skin and produce corrosive phosphoric acids. Release of WP in an enclosed area can cause asphyxiation due to the decrease of oxygen. Exposure to smoke created by burning WP from military munitions can result in irritation or damage to the eyes, lungs, and throat. Workers exposed to WP over long periods can develop phossy jaw, a condition characterized by the breakdown of the jawbone and delayed-wound healing of the mouth. Treatment: Initially, contaminated clothing should be removed to prevent re-ignition. Treating skin exposed to WP requires irrigation of the contaminated areas or placement of water- or saline-soaked pads. If the area becomes dry, then the WP can re-ignite. In addition, bathing the area in a bicarbonate solution will neutralize any phosphoric acid that may have been produced. Remaining WP particles should be immediately removed surgically. Removal requires care to prevent further contamination of the person or responders. After complete removal, the patient can be treated as a burn victim. https://youtube/watch?v=h9fvR9l7ITE
Posted on: Tue, 21 Oct 2014 14:21:53 +0000
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