Mustard gas production, 1954
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Mustard gas production, 1954
Mustard gas production. 1950s production of artillery shells containing mustard gas at Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Commerce City, Colorado, USA. Mustard gas, a toxic chemical warfare agent, consists of chlorinated sulphur hydrocarbons. It causes severe blistering to the skin and can be fatal, hence the protection worn by the workers. These are 105-millimetre shells. This arsenal, used to produce a range of chemical weapons, was constructed during World War II. It was operated by the US Army until it closed in 1992. Photographed by a Denver Post photographer on 22 March 1954
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9222705
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1900s 1950s 1954 Chemical Warfare Chemical Weapon Colorado Constructing Engineer Engineers Explosive Factory Habs Haer Hals Historic American Buildings Survey Historic American Engineering Record Historic American Landscapes Survey Manufacturer Military North American Producing Production Line Protection Protective Suit Warfare Weapon Worker Workers Artillery Shell Manufacturers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a chilling moment in history - the production of mustard gas in 1954 at Rocky Mountain Arsenal, Commerce City, Colorado. The image showcases workers clad in protective suits as they construct artillery shells containing this deadly chemical warfare agent. Mustard gas, composed of chlorinated sulphur hydrocarbons, inflicts severe blistering on the skin and can be fatal. The photograph offers a glimpse into the dangerous reality faced by these brave individuals who risked their lives to manufacture such weapons during World War II. These 105-millimeter shells were part of a range of chemical weapons produced at the arsenal until its closure in 1992 under US Army operation. The monochrome composition adds an eerie ambiance to the scene, emphasizing both the historical significance and technological advancements involved in wartime manufacturing. It serves as a reminder of humanity's capacity for destruction and our ongoing efforts to protect ourselves from its consequences. Preserved by Library of Congress' Science Photo Library collection, this image stands as a testament to the dark chapters that unfolded within this factory's walls. It reminds us not only of our past but also highlights the importance of learning from it so that we may strive for peace and progress in future generations.
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