Lewisite (L) is an
organoarsenic compound. It was once manufactured in the U.S., Japan, and Germany for use as a
chemical weapon, acting as a
vesicant (blister agent) and
lung irritant. Although colorless and odorless, impure samples of lewisite are a yellow, brown, violet-black, green, or amber oily liquid with a distinctive odor that has been described as similar to
geraniums.