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Pepper spray

Pepper spray is a non-lethal chemical agent which is used in riot control and personal self-defense. The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, which is a chemical derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, including chiles. Pepper spray is also known as OC spray (from "Oleoresin Capsicum") or OC gas. The excessive use of pepper spray has been linked to lasting injuries and fatalities.

The scoville rating for pepper spray can be as high as 5,300,000 for police grade and much lower for civilian grade. The civilian grade OC spray measures about 2,000,000 scoville heat units.

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Last updated: 11-10-2004 19:51:18