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How do binary chemical weapons differ from traditional chemical weapons?

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American soldiers in World War I uniforms, some wearing gas masks, advance with rifles during a simulated gas attack exercise on a rocky battlefield. — chemical weapon American soldiers participating in a simulated gas attack exercise, World War I.

Binary chemical weapons differ from traditional chemical weapons primarily in their composition and delivery mechanism. While most traditional chemical arms contain premixed ingredients, binary weapons consist of two separate, less toxic chemical components that are stored individually within the weapon.1

These components are designed to be mixed together while the weapon is in flight during delivery to the target. This design offers significant advantages over traditional chemical arms, as binary weapons are considered safer and easier to store and handle. By keeping the precursors separate until the moment of use, the risks associated with maintaining stockpiles of highly toxic, ready-to-use chemical agents are reduced.1