Modified static diffusion cells for decontamination modelling

摘要

Current thinking for chemical decontamination of individuals recommends that casualties remove contaminated clothing and undergo showering as soon as possible (Houston and Hendrickson, 2005). However, showering parameters which may influence decontamination performance are not well characterised. An in vitro diffusion cell model to examine the comparative effects of various parameters such as shower temperature, duration, flow-rate, detergent or physical washing aid use upon percutaneous absorption of skin contaminants would be valuable in order to provide scientific evidence for improving current protocols to reduce effects from exposure e.g. to chemical warfare (CW) agents such as sulphur mustard or nerve agents.