What limitation does the M9 chemical agent detector paper have?

The M9 chemical agent detector paper is primarily designed to identify the presence of certain chemical agents by changing colors upon contact. However, a significant limitation of the M9 paper is its inability to provide precise identification of the specific chemical type present. While it can indicate that a chemical agent may be present through a color change, the paper does not differentiate between various agents or provide detailed information about the specific nature of the chemical that caused the reaction. Therefore, when using M9 paper, personnel can confirm the presence of a chemical hazard but cannot ascertain which specific chemical is involved, making it less effective for nuanced decision-making in the field.

The other options describe characteristics that do not accurately represent the M9 detector's limitations. For instance, it is capable of detecting vapor phases of certain agents and does not exclusively react to solids. Additionally, while functionality may vary with temperature, the M9 paper is generally designed to operate effectively within a broad range of environmental conditions.