Chemical and biological terrorism, potentially life-saving drugs, origins of the solar system and advances in forensic science are among topics set for discussion at the 223rd national meeting of the American Chemical Society, April 7-11, in Orlando, Florida.

The Society will hold its meeting at the Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive. More than 6,500 papers have been submitted and approximately 11,000 scientists are expected to attend the meeting.

Symposia and topics on the Orlando program include:

Preparedness and response to biological and chemical terrorism, including the vulnerability of chemical sites and new sensors that detect explosives and nerve agents;

New clues to the origins of our solar system;

Recent pharmaceutical developments, including drugs to destroy brain tumors, fight osteoporosis, and inhibit coughing;

The chemistry of movie production and film preservation;

Energy for the future; and

Diversity issues in science, including symposia on the advancement of women and the creation of female-friendly workplaces.

The American Chemical Society will hold its fall meeting August 18-22 in Boston.