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

The potential for highly reactive nanoparticles (RNP) to absorb destructively, i.e. to neutralize highly toxic substances such as the warfare agents GA, GB, HD and VX, has been demonstrated in the laboratory. Reactive nanoparticles represent a new class of nanoscale particles of metals and metal oxides that differ from other nanoparticles in reactivity and crystalline morphology. The potential for incorporating RNP into a protective barrier skin cream also has been demonstrated. Preliminary studies indicate that RNP are physically and chemically compatible with a base cream provided by the Army Medical Research Office and, importantly, remain reactive with chemical agents while promising to be compatible with skin contact.