Subtitle: Chemical Asphyxiants
Chemical asphyxiants are chemicals that cause asphyxiation, or the lack of oxygen, in a person's body. There are three main types of chemical asphyxiants: carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is produced by incomplete combustion of fuel. Inhaling carbon monoxide reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to tissue hypoxia. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur at lower concentrations over an extended period of time or at higher concentrations over a shorter period of time.
Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN)
Hydrogen cyanide is a colorless, highly volatile, and flammable gas that has a characteristic bitter almond odor. Inhaling HCN reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to tissue hypoxia. It is used in a variety of industrial processes, such as metal finishing, electroplating, and chemical production.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Nitrogen dioxide is a reddish-brown gas with a sharp, pungent odor. It is produced by combustion of fuels and is commonly found in automobile exhaust. Inhaling nitrogen dioxide reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to tissue hypoxia. Long-term exposure to nitrogen dioxide can lead to respiratory problems.