riot-control agent

Also found in: Medical.

[′rī·ət kən¦trōl ā·jənt]

(materials)

A chemical that produces temporary irritating or disabling effects when in contact with the eyes or when inhaled.

References in periodicals archive ?

Typically, riot-control agents are among those that are legal for controlling a civil population but cannot be employed against a combatant.

Military forces have used riot-control agents, defoliants, and rubber bullets for decades.

In addition, this convention bans the use of riot-control agents such as pepper spray as a method of warfare.