Chemical Warfare was a extremely effective technique when dealing with enemies in trenches. Of course mortars were also effective, but gases can travel through air for miles and spreads out, unlike mortars that only dealt damage in a radius. Chemical warfare was first used in 1914 by the French and was later used by the other countries in World War 1. Chemical Warfare was usually a last resort, and depending on the type of poison gas, it could have horrible effects on the people who were exposed to it.
Tear Gas: First used during 1914, tear gas was an helpful method in smoking out multiple enemies in one enclosed area (like in houses, holes, and trenches). This chemical agent wasn't meant to kill, it was designed to immobilize the enemy for a short amount of time, allowing troops to take the position of their foes. Tear Gas didn't get its name for nothing, when exposed to the chemical, it can caused the eyes to sting and become irritated, causing crying. When inhaled the gas can also cause problems breathing. Also, when exposed to too much tear gas, it can cause permanent blindness.
Protection was soon needed and respirators allowed the user to breath fresh air and filtrated the lachrymatory gas (gases that cause pain but not death). Also, if exposed to the chemical agent, one could simply readjust the respirator and would soothe symptoms. Finally, lachrymatory gases aren't as effective against hot, moist skin in cool climates.
Click here to continue
Protection was soon needed and respirators allowed the user to breath fresh air and filtrated the lachrymatory gas (gases that cause pain but not death). Also, if exposed to the chemical agent, one could simply readjust the respirator and would soothe symptoms. Finally, lachrymatory gases aren't as effective against hot, moist skin in cool climates.
Click here to continue