Abstract: A method and composition of matter for detecting and decontaminating hazardous chemicals, the composition of matter including: a magnetic material for any of chemisorbing, molecularly dissociating, or decomposing a hazardous chemical, wherein the magnetic material changes its magnetic moment upon any of chemisorption, decomposition, and molecular dissociation of the hazardous chemical and the change in magnetic moment is used to detect the presence of the hazardous chemical, and wherein the hazardous chemical includes any of toxic industrial chemicals, chemical warfare agents, and chemical warfare agent related compounds.

Abstract: A self-adjusting barrier incorporates a series of float units restrained between a primary wall, such as a bulkhead, and a secondary wall, such as sheetpile. The secondary wall may be braced to the primary wall. The float units slidably interconnect along adjacent edges to self-adjust along a perimeter, such as a marina or waterfront lot, based on the height of water within the chamber (stilling basin) provided between the two walls. Mechanisms for deterring vandalism and providing increased environmental integrity are also provided for select embodiments. Methods of employing the barrier are also disclosed.