Mace (spray) - Definition

Mace is a brand of tear gas in the form of an aerosol spray which propels the lachrymatory mixed with a volatile solvent. It is often used as a self-defense device.

The original formulation consisted of 1% CN in a solvent of sec-butanol, propylene glycol, cyclohexene, and dipropylene glycol methyl ether. Some formulations now also include Oleoresin Capsicum (active ingredient in pepper spray).

Mace was originally manufactured under the name "Chemical Mace" by Lake Erie Chemical (a former division of Smith & Wesson) in 1962, but is now a registered trademark of Mace Security International. Many other companies now manufacture similar products.