The Pentagon funds non-lethal weapons research for its Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program (JNLWP). Proposed projects have included using intense electromagnetic fields to produce effects ranging from the disruption of short-term memory to total loss of control of voluntary bodily functions; directed energy weapons; genetically engineered microorganisms that would corrode roads and runways and produce targeted deterioration of metal parts, coatings and lubricants of weapons, vehicles and support equipment, as well as fuels and plastics. It is not clear how many of these ideas have actually been realized, but the group has already patented a microorganism that would decompose polyurethane, a common component of paint for ships and aircraft, including stealth anti-radar coatings.
Proposals to use stink bombs, sedatives and opium derivatives as weapons would contravene the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1992. This prohibits "any chemical which... can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm". Those that use biological agents may contravene the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention of 1972 prohibits the "development, production, stockpiling or acquisition of biological agents or toxins" other than for peaceful purposes. The USA itself introduced a law in 2001 banning the possession of bioweapons, including microbes designed to attack materials.