Dual-Use Chemicals

Throughout history, chemical sciences have continuously advanced, generating a vast array of substances with significant industrial, medical and agricultural applications. However, several chemicals can pose major threats when diverted for hostile or criminal purposes. Common substances, such as fertilizers, pesticides or solvents have legitimate roles in crop productivity and industrial processes, yet they can be weaponized or misused to obtain explosives, toxins or illicit abuse drugs. This duality is underlined by stringent national and international regulations, including the Chemical Weapons Convention, which aims to limit the development, production, stockpiling and deployment of lethal substances. For scientists, industry professionals and policymakers, awareness of the dual-use potential and commitment to transparency remain paramount. This chapter summarizes the main classes of dual-use chemicals, from active pharmaceutical ingredients to agrochemicals, from highly energetic compounds to toxins and bio-tech products, whose intrinsic hazardous or toxic physical–chemical nature can be applied to kill or cause harm to living organisms. The text also examines the scientific, technical, ethical and regulatory dimensions of dual-use chemicals, underscoring the critical need for awareness and vigilant oversight to protect public health and maintain global stability.