A Simple and Efficient Chemical Decontamination of Sulfur Mustard (HD) Using 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5,4,0]Undec-7-Ene Hydrobromide-Perbromide

Abstract

A simple and efficient chemical decontamination method was developed against sulfur mustard (HD), an extremely toxic and persistent chemical warfare agent. The method involves treatment of chemical warfare agent HD and its simulants, i.e., methyl p-tolyl sulfide, 2-chloroethyl phenyl sulfide, and 2-chloroethyl ethyl sulfide, with 1,8-diazabicyclo[5,4,0]undec-7-ene hydrobromide-perbromide at room temperature in 1:3 acetonitrile–water system as well as in aqueous medium. The reagent has efficiency to oxidize sulfur mustard in a controlled manner to form nontoxic sulfoxide avoiding overoxidation to the toxic sulfone. Reaction products of the oxidation were isolated and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and ¹H NMR.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• DBU hydrobromide-perbromide
• decontamination
• GC-MS
• selective oxidation
• Sulfur mustard (HD)

Acknowledgments

The authors sincerely thank Dr. R. Vijayaraghavan, Director, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Gwalior, for his keen interest and encouragement.