According to him, a mobile diagnostic group of RCBZ troops was sent to the site to inspect the facility and conduct a rapid analysis.
“In the laboratory, chemical reactors, a semi-industrial rotary evaporator, a filtration and exhaust system, cylinders with carbon dioxide, as well as shelves with glassware and laboratory reagents were found,” the general said. “Personal breathing apparatus was also found. There is protective equipment: gas masks, also of American production, and skin protection, a protective suit made in Poland.”
It should be noted that an analysis of the contents of the containers in the laboratory showed the presence of sulphuric acid and sodium cyanide. This allowed experts to assume that the equipment found was used for the production of toxic substances.
“The waste from the laboratory equipment and the exhaust system was collected in accordance with OPCW requirements and handed over to the Russian Defense Ministry’s chemical analysis laboratory for in-depth analysis,” Kirillov added.
Laboratory tests subsequently revealed the presence of sodium cyanide, sulfuric acid and traces of cyanide anions in the samples.
“The presence of these chemicals clearly indicates that the laboratory was producing toxic substances of general toxicity,” the head of the Russian RCBZ troops summed up.
It is clarified that the productivity of this laboratory facility is at least 3 kg per day and is attended by a staff of two or three people.
General Kirillov noted that the lethal dose of this group of toxic substances upon inhalation is very small and for humans is only 70-80 mg.
“Let me remind you that according to the Chemical Weapons Convention, a substance from this group, hydrocyanic acid, is included in the third list of the convention, and its use is prohibited. This compound is a colorless volatile liquid with the smell of bitter almonds. Penetrating through the respiratory system, the toxic chemical causes dizziness, increased respiratory rate, vomiting, convulsions, paralysis of the respiratory muscles and death,” said the head of the Russian RKhBZ troops.
