Chiralium

Chiralium is a form of matter that originates from the Beach. Following the Death Stranding, this chiral matter has since spread through Earth's atmosphere, where it is primarily responsible for the meteorological phenomenon known as timefall.

Overview[]

Chiralium originates from the Beach and, like its source, exists outside the flow of time. Often compared to dark matter, it is believe to have been present since the Big Bang—imperceptible and unable to interact with the world of the living until the Death Stranding. One of its most notable properties is its ability to cause surrounding debris to levitate, a trait harnessed in the development of floating platforms.

Chiral crystals exposed to timefall show no signs of degradation, making chiralium a valuable resource in the construction of high-tech devices that exploit the Beach's unique physics. However, due to its toxicity, chiralium cannot be stored in large quantities for extended periods. As a result, its use is limited to small objects and select structures.

Chiral contamination[]

Prolonged exposure to chiralium can severely affect both physical and mental health—a condition known as chiral contamination. Common symptoms include vivid apocalyptic nightmares, poor sleep quality, depression, suicidal ideations, and in extreme cases, death. If left unchecked, contamination can progress to more advance stages marked by hormonal imbalances and destructive impulses toward oneself or others.

The separatist group Homo Demens is a prime example of what this kind of deterioration can do to someone—driven by irrational, often violent ideologies. In the case of some porters, such as MULEs, contamination contributes to impaired memory and judgment, leading to obsessive behaviors tied to their profession. Notably, individuals suffering from DOOMS have demonstrated increased resistance to chiral contamination.

Chiral contamination can be alleviated through stress-reduction methods such as increasing oxytocin secretion via interpersonal contact or the use of smart drugs. Additionally, a naturally occurring hormone called likecin is known to counteract its effects and restore mental and physical function. Unlike oxytocin, likecin cannot be administered externally—it must be secreted internally in response to external stimuli, often through social interaction or by receiving likes.

Presence[]

Chiralium is generated through heavy precipitation, making it especially common in regions frequently affected by timefall or areas with high concentrations of BTs. The presence of BTs is closely tied to increased chiral density, and their proximity often heralds a spike in chiral levels. When a catcher-type BT is defeated, it solidifies into a mass of chiralium before shattering, leaving behind a significant quantity of freshly formed chiral crystals. Additionally, connecting an area to the chiral network contributes to a rise in local chiral density, further reinforcing the link between network integration and environmental chiral saturation.

Notes[]

'Chiralium' is a reference to 'chirality'—the property of asymmetry where an object and its mirror image cannot be superimposed.
The words chiral, chirality, and chiralium are derived from the Ancient Greek word χείρ (kheír) meaning 'hand'—a familiar example of a chiral object. In this sense, chiralium and regular matter may be understood as chiral counterparts. Chiral crystals themselves resemble grasping hands and exhibit a golden luster when seen with the naked eye.