Picric acid

Picric acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H3N3O7 and the IUPAC name 2,4,6-trinitrophenol. It appears as a colorless to yellow crystalline solid with a bitter taste and is highly explosive when dry[5][1]. Historically used as an antiseptic in medical ointments for treating wounds and burns in the early 20th century[1], its primary modern uses are as a chemical reagent in laboratories and as an explosive component (notably in munitions such as Dunnite)[5][6]. Picric acid has also been used in dye manufacturing, metallurgy (as "picral" etchant), histology (Bouin solution), batteries, colored glass production, leather processing, and textile industries[5][6]. Its mechanism of action when used medically was primarily antiseptic and astringent effects; it also acted as a stimulant for epithelialization[2]. Due to its toxicity—causing irritation upon inhalation or ingestion—and high explosiveness when dry or combined with metals to form metal picrates,[1][3] its use has become limited.

Other names

carbazotic acidpicronitric acidtrinitrophenol2,4,6-trinitrophenolPicricum acidum