Ion exchange resins as catalysts in the decomposition of sarin

Abstract

AbstractThe hydrolysis rate of the nerve gas Sarin in aqueous solution may be accelerated by strongly acidic and strongly basic ion exchange resins. Basic resins are more effective than acid resins. Depending on the resin type and internal structure, a diffusional process or the chemical reaction may be rate determining. In distilled water, cationic resins behave as true catalysts, whereas the products of decomposition of Sarin destroy the effectiveness of anion resins. Dissolved salts in the water lower the useful life of both types of resins by replacement of the active hydrogen or hydroxyl groups.