What is osmium tetroxide?
By Claire Foy-Smith BBC News Online Osmium tetroxide is corrosive Osmium tetroxide is the chemical believed to be at the centre of an alleged bomb plot foiled by UK and US intelligence agents. It is thought the supposed plan involved detonating an explosive device and the compound. Osmium tetroxide is used by scientists to stain materials and as a catalyst – something that speeds chemical reactions. It is also a toxic substance with corrosive effects on eyes and skin, making it dangerous to touch or inhale. ‘Volatile substance’ And it would also have the ability to cause panic if released in a closed environment. But given its high cost and volatile nature, scientists say it makes an unlikely ingredient for an effective “dirty bomb”. Dr Steve Simpson, a senior lecturer in chemistry at the University of Salford works with the substance. You would be in appreciable danger just opening a bottle Dr Steve Simpson He told BBC News Online the yellow crystalline solid is a volatile substance –
