Mailles mustard gas

You're referring to the infamous "mailles" or "button" mustard gas attacks!

During World War I, mustard gas was a type of chemical weapon used by the German army. It was a sulfur mustard, a highly toxic and corrosive gas that caused severe burns, blisters, and respiratory problems.

The "mailles" or "button" attacks referred to the way the gas was released. German soldiers would wear gas masks with a special filter that had small holes or "mailles" (French for "mesh" or "holes") to allow air to pass through while filtering out the gas. However, these filters were not foolproof, and the gas could still seep through the holes, causing harm to the soldiers.

The term "button" was also used because the gas was released in small, round pellets that resembled buttons. These pellets would be dropped from aircraft or artillery shells, releasing the gas as they broke apart.

The effects of mustard gas were devastating. It caused severe burns, blisters, and respiratory problems, and could lead to long-term health issues, including cancer and birth defects. The gas was also highly persistent, lingering in the environment for days or even weeks after it was released.

The use of mustard gas was widely condemned by the international community, and it is now banned by the Chemical Weapons Convention.