Papers Flashcards
What is the purpose of pH paper?
To measure the acidity or alkalinity of a substance.
What color does pH paper turn in an acidic substance?
Red.
What color does pH paper turn in a neutral substance?
Green.
What color does pH paper turn in a basic/alkaline substance?
Blue.
Why is pH paper important in Hazmat operations?
It helps identify the scale of potential hydrogen to better understand the chemical and how to mitigate it
What is the purpose of KI paper?
To detect oxidizing agents.
What color does KI paper turn in the presence of nitrates, shock sensitives and oxidizing agents? And peroxides?
Blue/violet spots and rings
Black/dark purple for peroxides
What are common oxidizers detected by KI paper?
Chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, and other reactive chemicals.
How is KI paper used in the field?
It is exposed to fumes or liquid suspected to contain oxidizers.
What is the hazard significance of a positive KI paper reaction?
Indicates the presence of reactive or highly flammable substances.
What is the purpose of M8 paper?
To identify the presence of liquid chemical warfare agents.
What color does M8 paper turn for blister agents?
Red or pink.
What color does M8 paper turn for G-series nerve agents?
Yellow/gold
What color does M8 paper turn for V-series nerve agents?
Green or dark green.
How is M8 paper used in the field?
It is dabbed onto liquid substances to test for chemical agents.
What limitation does M8 paper have?
It cannot detect vapor-phase agents, only liquids.
What is the purpose of M9 paper?
To detect the presence of liquid chemical agents.
What color does M9 paper change to upon contact with liquid chemical agents?
Red or red-brown.
What type of chemical agents does M9 paper detect?
Liquid chemical agents but without differentiating the type.
How quickly does M9 paper react?
Almost immediately upon contact with hazardous liquids.
What is the primary limitation of M9 paper?
It only detects the presence of agents but does not identify specific types.
What is the purpose of F paper?
To detect fluoride
Why is F paper highly specific?
It reacts only to fluorinated organophosphate compounds.
How is F paper used in the field?
Exposed to liquid or vapor suspected to contain fluorinated agents.
What does a positive F paper result indicate?
The presence of fluorinated ions
What is the primary role of monitoring papers in Hazmat operations?
To provide rapid identification of hazardous substances.
Why is color change important in sampling papers?
It provides a visual and immediate indication of hazard presence.
What is the main difference between M8 and M9 papers?
M8 identifies specific types of agents, while M9 detects the presence of any liquid chemical agent.
Also m9 PPB
M8 PPM
How should sampling papers be stored?
In a dry, cool environment to prevent contamination or premature reactions.
What is the common limitation of all these detection papers?
They generally cannot detect vapor-phase substances without additional equipment.
Extra color m8 can turn and why
Blue, arsenic trichloride
F paper color turn for fluorinated ions
Yellow
Concentration and minimum about F paper measure in
PPM
20
What do you activate KI paper with?
Oxidizers and chlorine
Hydrochloride solution for oxidizers
Water for chlorine
KI paper minimum concentration and how measured
20 PPM
Types of g nerve agents
Tabun (GA), Sarin (GB), Soman (GD), and Cyclosarin (GF).
Types of v nerve agents
VX (the most well-known), VE, VG, VM.
Types of blister agents
Phosgene oxime, lewisite, nitrogen mustards, sulfur mustards
What is KI paper used for?
Determination of nitrates and free chlorine.
KI paper is a common analytical tool used in various chemical tests.
What is the pH level for testing nitrite with KI paper?
pH < 2.
This acidic condition is necessary for accurate nitrite detection.
What happens on KI paper with high nitrite concentrations?
Blue/violet spots appear.
This color change indicates the presence of high levels of nitrite.
What happens on KI paper with low nitrite concentrations?
Blue/violet rings appear.
The formation of rings suggests lower nitrite levels.
What is the pH level for testing free chlorine with KI paper?
pH 6–7.
This neutral pH range is optimal for free chlorine testing.
What happens on KI paper with high chlorine concentrations?
Blue/violet spots appear.
Similar to nitrite testing, high chlorine levels cause a distinct color change.
What happens on KI paper with low chlorine concentrations?
Blue/violet rings appear.
This indicates the presence of free chlorine but at lower concentrations.
What can interfere with KI paper tests?
All oxidizing reagents.
Interference can lead to false positives in the test results.
How do oxidizing reagents interfere with KI paper?
They liberate iodine from potassium iodide, showing a positive reaction.
This reaction complicates the interpretation of test results.
What are pH test papers used for?
Measuring acidity or alkalinity.
pH < 7 indicates what?
Acidic solution.
pH = 7 indicates what?
Neutral solution.
pH > 7 indicates what?
Alkaline (basic) solution.
How do you use pH test papers?
Dip in solution; compare color to the chart.
What color indicates strong acidity on pH paper?
Red.
What color indicates neutrality on pH paper?
Green.
What color indicates strong alkalinity on pH paper?
Blue.
Fill in the blank: ________ solutions can mask color changes on pH paper.
Colored or turbid.
What causes false positives on pH test papers?
Oxidizing agents or contamination.
What causes false negatives on pH test papers?
Reducing agents like ascorbic acid.
True or False: pH test papers work on oily samples.
False.
Fill in the blank: High ________ concentrations can distort pH readings.
Salt.
Fill in the blank: Extreme ________ affects the accuracy of pH test paper.
Temperature.
Can pH test papers differentiate between strong and weak acids?
No.
Why shouldn’t you touch pH test paper with fingers?
To avoid contamination.
What is F paper used for?
Rapid determination of fluoride ions and gaseous hydrogen fluoride in an atmosphere.
What is the reaction on F paper in the presence of fluoride ions?
Yellowish-white spot appears against a pink-red background.
What is the shelf life of F paper?
3 years.
What pH level is required to test with F paper?
pH ≤ 1.
How is F paper applied for testing?
Apply a drop of hydrochloric acid solution (pH ≤ 1) to the test paper.
What happens when high concentrations of fluorides are present on F paper?
A yellowish-white spot appears.
What happens when low concentrations of fluorides are present on F paper?
A yellowish-white ring appears.
When must F paper reactions be determined?
Immediately after applying the test solution.
How do complex-bound fluoride ions react on F paper?
In the same manner as free fluoride ions.
What is the sensitivity of F paper?
20 mg/L (ppm).
What causes whitening on F paper, interfering with the test?
Chlorates, bromates, and sulfates.
How is interference from chlorates and bromates eliminated on F paper?
By adding sodium dithionite (Na2S2O4).
Does sodium dithionite eliminate fluoride interference?
No, it only removes chlorate and bromate interference.
How is sulfate interference on F paper eliminated?
By adding barium chloride.
What must be considered for solutions with intense color during F paper tests?
The color of the solution should be accounted for when interpreting reactions.
What does M8 paper detect?
V/G nerve and blister agents
## Footnote
M8 paper is specifically designed to identify certain types of chemical agents.
What is the shelf life of M8 paper?
Infinite if kept dry
Proper storage conditions are critical for maintaining the effectiveness of M8 paper.
What color indicates a G nerve agent on M8 paper?
Yellow-gold
This color coding is essential for rapid identification of nerve agents.
What color indicates an H blister agent on M8 paper?
Red-pink
The color helps personnel quickly differentiate between types of agents.
What color indicates a V nerve agent on M8 paper?
Dark-green
Correct identification is crucial for response measures.
What can cause false positives on M8 paper?
Some decontaminants
Awareness of limitations is important for accurate interpretation of results.
What does M9 paper detect?
Chemical warfare agents
M9 paper measures in PPB and only detects the presence of
Used as a tape
What colors indicate the presence of chemical agents on M9 paper?
Red, pink, reddish-brown, or purple
These colors reflect the presence of various chemical agents.
What can cause false positives on M9 paper?
Heat, dirt, oil, grease, petroleum, or decon solutions (e.g., DS2)
Understanding these factors is crucial for accurate readings.
What does M9 paper NOT detect?
Chemical agent vapors
This limitation is important for operational planning.
How should M9 paper results be confirmed?
With an M256 kit or comparable detector
Confirmation is essential for ensuring safety and accuracy.
What is the shelf life of M9 paper?
3 years
Regular checks on the expiration date are necessary for operational readiness.
What safety precaution is required for applying M9 paper?
Wear gloves
Personal protective measures are vital when handling chemical detection equipment.
Where should M9 paper be applied on the bear claw and suit?
It’s the tape that’s the base
On arm and face mask
## Footnote
Placement is strategic for effective monitoring.
What light is required to read M9 paper at night?
White light
Proper lighting is necessary for accurate reading of results.
What adjustments are needed if left-handed when applying M9 paper?
Reverse placement locations
Adaptation ensures effective use regardless of dominant hand.
Give an example of an acid with its pH.
Hydrochloric acid (HCl), pH ~1.
Give an example of a base with its pH.
Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), pH ~13.
What is the pH of vinegar (acetic acid)?
~2-3.
What is the pH of baking soda?
~8-9.
What is the pH of pure water?
7 (neutral).
What is the pH of lemon juice?
~2.
What is the pH of ammonia?
~11.
What causes a hit on KI paper for nitrites?
Nitrite salts (e.g., sodium nitrite).
What causes a hit on KI paper for chlorine?
Free chlorine (Cl2) or bleach (sodium hypochlorite).
What do oxidizers do to KI paper?
Liberate iodine from KI, showing a positive reaction.
Examples of oxidizers causing a reaction on KI paper?
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Potassium permanganate.
What color change indicates a positive hit on KI paper?
Blue/violet spots or rings.
What chemical causes a positive hit on F paper?
Fluoride ions or gaseous hydrogen fluoride (HF).
Example of a source for fluoride ions?
Sodium fluoride or fluorosilicic acid.
What is required to test with F paper?
Hydrochloric acid (pH ≤ 1).
What interference can cause whitening on F paper?
Chlorates, bromates, and sulfates.
How can sulfate interference be eliminated?
Add barium chloride.
What does a yellowish-white spot indicate on F paper?
High fluoride concentration.
What chemical causes a yellow-gold hit on M8 paper?
G nerve agent (e.g., sarin).
What chemical causes a red-pink hit on M8 paper?
H blister agent (e.g., sulfur mustard).
What chemical causes a dark-green hit on M8 paper?
V nerve agent (e.g., VX).
Does M8 paper detect liquids or vapors?
Liquids only.
What chemicals can cause a hit on M9 paper?
Chemical warfare agents like nerve and blister agents.
What colors indicate a hit on M9 paper?
- Red
- Pink
- Reddish-brown
- Purple.
What can cause false positives on M9 paper?
Heat, oil, dirt, petroleum, or decon solutions.
Does M9 paper detect vapors?
No, only liquid agents.
How should M9 paper results be confirmed?
Using an M256 kit or comparable detector.
What are the signs of acid exposure?
Burning sensation, redness, pain, possible tissue damage
Acid exposure can lead to significant harm depending on the concentration and duration of contact.
What are the signs of base exposure?
Slippery feel, pain, redness, deep tissue damage
Bases can cause severe injuries, particularly to skin and eyes.
Fill in the blank: Acids have a pH of ________.
<7
Fill in the blank: Bases have a pH of ________.
> 7
What does a base feel like on skin?
Slippery and soapy
What does acid exposure to eyes cause?
Burning, redness, possible vision loss
What are the signs of nitrite exposure?
Headache, nausea, cyanosis (bluish skin)
Cyanosis indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood.
What are the signs of chlorine exposure?
Coughing, burning eyes, throat irritation, chest tightness
Fill in the blank: KI paper reacts to ________ and ________.
Nitrites and chlorine
What oxidizers can cause KI paper to react?
Hydrogen peroxide, bleach
What symptom indicates chlorine inhalation?
Shortness of breath
What is cyanosis, and what causes it in nitrite exposure?
Bluish skin due to reduced oxygen in the blood
What are the signs of fluoride exposure?
Burns, pain, skin discoloration
What are the signs of hydrogen fluoride (HF) exposure?
Severe pain, deep tissue damage, possible cardiac effects
Fill in the blank: F paper reacts with ________ ions and ________.
Fluoride; hydrogen fluoride (HF)
What is the long-term danger of HF exposure?
Hypocalcemia (low calcium), cardiac arrest
What color change on F paper indicates fluoride?
Yellowish-white spot
What is a serious systemic symptom of HF exposure?
Cardiac arrhythmias
What are the symptoms of exposure to G nerve agents?
Muscle twitching, pinpoint pupils, difficulty breathing
What are the symptoms of exposure to H blister agents?
Blistering, severe burns, eye damage
What are the symptoms of exposure to V nerve agents?
Paralysis, convulsions, respiratory failure
Fill in the blank: M8 paper detects ________, ________, and ________ agents.
G nerve, H blister, V nerve
What causes yellow-gold on M8 paper?
G nerve agents (e.g., sarin)
What causes red-pink on M8 paper?
H blister agents (e.g., sulfur mustard)
What causes dark-green on M8 paper?
V nerve agents (e.g., VX)
What are the general signs of exposure to chemical warfare agents?
Burns, blisters, respiratory distress, seizures
What are the signs of nerve agent exposure?
Pinpoint pupils, drooling, convulsions
What are the signs of blister agent exposure?
Severe burns, blisters, lung damage
Fill in the blank: M9 paper turns ________ when detecting chemical agents.
Red, pink, reddish-brown, or purple
What can cause false positives on M9 paper?
Heat, grease, petroleum products
What is the main danger of nerve agent exposure?
Respiratory failure
How are M9 paper hits confirmed?
With an M256 kit
What is a key long-term effect of fluoride exposure not immediately visible?
Skeletal fluorosis, causing bone pain and stiffness.
How does HF exposure differ from other acids in damage?
HF penetrates deep into tissues, causing delayed pain and systemic toxicity.
Fill in the blank: The lethal dose of HF is approximately ________ mL of concentrated solution on the skin.
2.5 mL.
Why is rapid decontamination critical for nerve agents?
They bind irreversibly to enzymes, disrupting the nervous system.
What is the function of atropine in nerve agent exposure?
Blocks the effects of excess acetylcholine, reducing symptoms.
Why are false positives common with M9 paper in field conditions?
Contaminants like grease, oils, and decon solutions mimic chemical agent reactions.
How does sulfur mustard (H blister agent) cause damage?
Alkylates DNA, leading to cell death and delayed blisters.
What is the main reason G nerve agents are more volatile than V agents?
Lower molecular weight, causing faster evaporation and inhalation risk.
How does KI paper help differentiate between free chlorine and bound chlorine?
Only free chlorine reacts; bound chlorine (in chloramines) does not.
Why is pH paper unreliable in highly concentrated solutions?
Strong acids/bases can saturate the indicator, giving misleading results.
Ammonium Nitrate is an example of?
Nitrate
Commonly used as a fertilizer and in explosives; can detonate under heat or shock when contaminated.
Sodium Nitrate is an example of?
Nitrate
Used in food preservation and pyrotechnics; strong oxidizer that supports combustion.
Mercury Fulminate is an example of?
Shock Sensitive
Used in detonators; extremely sensitive to shock and friction.
Lead Azide is an example of?
Shock Sensitive
Commonly used in explosives; highly sensitive to shock.
Potassium Permanganate is an example of?
Oxidizer
Used for water treatment; intensifies combustion with organic materials.
Potassium Chlorate is an example of?
Oxidizer
Used in fireworks and explosives; reacts violently with fuels.
Hydrogen Peroxide (Concentrated) is an example of?
Peroxide
Used in bleaching and disinfecting; decomposes violently under heat or contamination.
Acetone Peroxide (TATP) is an example of?
Peroxide
Improvised explosive; highly sensitive to shock, friction, and heat.
