The United Nations Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is briefly described, highlighting the role of mass spectrometry in the verification provisions of the Convention. These include mechanisms for the monitoring of chemicals contained in 'schedules', and the inspection of sites and facilities relevant to the CWC. The analysis of polar degradation products of chemical warfare agents by electrospray mass spectrometry is discussed, in particular, with respect to its potential application in the verification of the CWC.
The United Nations Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC)' was opened for signature in Paris in January 1993, and is expected to enter into force in late 1996.2 The Convention, which will be administered by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) based in The Hague, prohibits the development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons. Stockpiled chemical weapons will be destroyed under the provisions of this treaty.
After entry into force, the CWC will impose obligations on States, including restrictions on or reporting of the production, trade and use of chemicals that have been identified as posing a particular risk to the CWC. These chemicals are grouped into three schedules: