Chemical & Biological Agent Production (Indicators & Warnings)

Ricin

Ricin is extractracted from castor seeds, which come from the ricin plant RICINUS communis.

Key Indicators:

• Castor seeds ( not kidney shaped )
  
• Marbles, beaker
  
• pH paper
  
• Lab filter paper or coffee filters with white powder
  
• Dead animals in the area
  
• Gloves and face mask
  
• Basic equipment, such as blenders, jars, and pliers that can be easily obtained (local hardware store, laboratory supply house, high school laboratory)
  
• Chemicals such as acetic (vinegar), acetone, bleach, carbon tetrachloride, hexane, hydrochloric acid (muritic acid, DEA List II Regulated Chemical). etc...Above is Ricin Plant
  

  Above is Castor Bean

A typical castor bean plant has an average of 1,300 seeds. On average one cup contains 500 seeds, weighs 130 grams, and may yeild up to 3 grams of pure ricin within the crude product.

Ricin toxin can be in the form of liquid or a "white powder."  The "white powder" more commonly associated with the toxin is indicative of a pure product. Crude ricin powder may have discoloration due to impurities, but the particle size may still be within the respirable range.