The Extensive Use of White Phosphorus in WWII and Its Effects

During World War II, white phosphorus was a highly effective and controversial weapon used by multiple nations for a variety of military applications. This article delves into the extensive use of white phosphorus by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, the primary purposes of its deployment, and the severe effects it had on both combatants and civilians.

Usage in WWII

White phosphorus saw extensive use during World War II, primarily in various military applications such as artillery shells, bombs, and incendiary devices. This versatile substance was employed by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany for different tactical advantages and objectives.

United States

The American military utilized white phosphorus in both offensive and defensive roles. Notable applications included the infamous M2 incendiary bombs, which were used to create smoke screens, mark targets, and serve as an anti-personnel weapon.

United Kingdom

The British forces also employed white phosphorus in their bombing campaigns against German cities. Their primary goal was to cause widespread destruction and chaos, leveraging its incendiary properties to achieve this end.

Germany

German forces employed white phosphorus in various munitions, including artillery shells and bombs. Like the Allied nations, they used it for similar purposes: to create smoke screens, obscure troop movements, and provide tactical advantages in battle.

The Effects of White Phosphorus

The effects of white phosphorus were far-reaching and devastating, both in the immediate aftermath of its use and in long-term health impacts.

Incendiary Properties

White phosphorus ignites on contact with air, producing intense heat and flames. This burning effect can cause severe burns and can ignite surrounding materials, making it an extremely dangerous and destructive weapon.

Psychological Impact

The horrifying effects of white phosphorus, coupled with its ability to cause painful and disfiguring injuries, had a profound psychological impact on both soldiers and civilians. The association of the weapon with inhumane suffering contributed to its lasting stigma in the annals of warfare.

Tactical Advantages

White phosphorus was also used to create smoke screens that obscured troop movements and positions, providing tactical advantages in battle. This capability made it a valuable asset for both securing and defending positions.

Humanitarian Concerns

The use of white phosphorus raised significant ethical and humanitarian concerns. Its ability to cause severe and potentially life-threatening injuries, combined with the potential for indiscriminate harm to civilians, led to ongoing debates about its legality and morality in warfare.

Structural and Chemical Properties of White Phosphorus

White phosphorus, a chemical compound with the formula P4, is highly reactive and can be converted into various forms, such as polyphosphoric acid (PPA). PPA, with a phosphoric anhydride content of 72 to 90.75%, has a stable structure that remains intact over an extended period, making it a useful material in various industrial applications.

The distribution of PPA weights with different phosphoric anhydride contents has been determined through published data, and a hydrolytic degradation program has been proposed to further explore its properties and applications.

The extensive use of white phosphorus during World War II serves as a stark reminder of the destructive impact of such weapons. While effective for military purposes, the severe and often cruel effects of white phosphorus have led to ongoing discussions about the ethical and moral implications of using such weapons in warfare.