Many chemical compounds possess more or less lachrymatory properties varying in intensity from mild irritation to severe, with a flow of tears so copious as to blind the victim temporarily. Some of these compounds, like chloropicrin, are also toxic. The lachrymatory property seems to be connected with the halogen group, and all lachrymators contain one of the halogens. In general, those compounds containing iodine have the strongest lachrymatory effect; bromine compounds are less powerful and chlorine compounds still less effective (304). The comparative rarity and expense of iodine makes the use of this element impractical. Most of the lachrymators used during the World War contained bromine and some, like bromobenzyl cyanide, were extremely effective. But bromine is quite expensive as compared with chlorine, and the development of the lachrymator chloroacetophenone, which is as effective as bromobenzyl cyanide, makes it appear probable that in the future no other lachrymatory gas will be manufactured. It is an interesting fact that even as early as 1887 Prof. Bayer, in his lectures to advanced students, included a reference to the military value of lachrymators (180). When tear gas is referred to by the general public, chloroacetophenone is usually meant.The chemical agents introduced during the World War proved very effective, as shown by the reports of the War Departments of the countries involved and the increased number of gas shells fired during the latter part of the war. Despite these facts, there is still an unholy fear of such agents on the part of the average citizen, owing to the mass of war propaganda against the use of gas and the lack of accurate information concerning same.Men fear the unknown; it is easier for them to maintain morale in the face of bullets, naked bayonets, and the sword's edge than in the presence of invisible gas; likewise a mob has less fear of the fire hose, night clubs, and bullets than of gas. There is always the uncertainty in their minds as to the effects of the gas, and more especially if there be a little smoke mixed with it, for they know not what may be behind it. The only real danger of serious injury from using non-toxic tear gas is from the possibility that members of the crowd may be trampled upon in attempts to escape.
195