Recently a leaked cable suggests Syrian authorities used Agent 15 in Homs on 23 December 2012. This article is not dissecting the on-going Syrian Civil war but transport classification of 3-Quinuclidinyl benzilate .
3-Quinuclidinyl benzilate is an incapacitating agent and is controlled under schedule 2 of Chemical Weapon Convention. During the Gulf War Iraq was accused of stockpiling this chemical.
Exposure to 3-Quinuclidinyl benzilate may develop symptoms such as Restlessness, Dizziness or giddiness, Failure to obey orders, Confusion, Erratic behaviour, Stumbling or staggering, Drymouth (cottonmouth), Tachycardia at rest, Elevated temperature, Flushing of face, Blurred vision, Pupillary dilation, Slurred or nonsensical speech, Hallucinations, Disrobing, Mumbling, Stupor and coma, Inappropriate smiling or laughter Irrational fear, Distractibility, Difficulty expressing self, Elevated blood pressure, Stomach cramps and vomiting, Euphoric, relaxed, unconcerned attitude, Hypotension and/or dizziness on sudden standing, Tremor, Clinging or pleading, Seemingly reasonless crying, Decrease in disturbance with reassurance.
3-Quinuclidinyl benzilate is commonly used as a tool in animal and tissue studies.
Under transport regulations 3-Quinuclidinyl benzilate is classified as toxic substances, class 6.1 and may be consigned under UN number 2811 TOXIC SOLID, ORGANIC, N.O.S.
Related articles
- Syria Dropped Hallucinogen Weapon on Rebels, U.S. Claims (wired.com)
- Syria used chemical weapons in Homs, US state department cables reveal (thisismoney.co.uk)
- White House Doubts Syria Chem. Weapons Report (socyberty.com)
- Syrian Military Used The Chemical Weapon ‘Agent 15’ In Yesterday’s Chemical Attack In Homs (warnewsupdates.blogspot.com)
IMDG Code Compliance Centre 