Diphenylaminechloroarsine

DescriptionAdamsite (DM) was first synthesized in 1915 by a German chemist Heinrich Wieland, and again in 1918 by a US chemist Robert Adams who named it adamsite. DM is a yellow-green, odorless crystalline solid at room temperature with low volatility. It is insoluble in water and relatively insoluble in organic solvents.

UsesDM has been used as a vomiting agent and as a riot-control agent. It is considered insufficiently toxic for use in war, but too potent for control of civilian disturbances. Thus, it was banned in 1930 for use against civilians. Adverse health effects due to exposure are generally self-limiting, resolving within 30 min, and do not require specific therapy. Prolonged exposure or exposure to high concentrations may result in more severe adverse health effects, serious illness, or death. DM has found extensive use as a pesticide for treatment of wood against insects.

UsesAs war gas, dispersed in air in the form of minute particles. For riots in combination with tear gas (chloroacetophenone). In the formulation of wood-treating solutions, against marine borers and similar pests.

General Description10-chloro-5,10-dihydrophenarsazine is in the form of yellow crystals. The vapors are very irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes and are also nauseating.