Picric Acid

H201: (Deleted) Explosive; mass explosion hazard [Danger Explosives]

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

P210, P230, P240, P250, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H201 (98.5%): (Deleted) Explosive; mass explosion hazard [Danger Explosives]

H301+H311+H331 (51.2%): Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H301 (99.5%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (99.5%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H317 (51.2%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H319 (51.2%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331 (99.5%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H361f (50.7%): Suspected of damaging fertility [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H373 (50.7%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H411 (50.7%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P333+P317, P337+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P391, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 205 reports by companies from 7 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P319, P321, P330, P333+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P319, P321, P330, P333+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H228: Flammable solid [Danger Flammable solids]

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

P210, P240, P241, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P370+P378, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible).

Rinse mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer for medical attention .

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Picric acid:

Eye: IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: SOAP WASH PROMPTLY - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital for treatment after washing the affected areas.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Generally, the induction of vomiting is NOT recommended outside of a physician's care due to the risk of aspirating the chemical into the victim's lungs. However, if the victim is conscious and not convulsing and if medical help is not readily available, consider the risk of inducing vomiting because of the high toxicity of the chemical ingested. Ipecac syrup or salt water may be used in such an emergency. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap wash promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

CARGO FIRE: DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE! Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn. Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

TIRE OR VEHICLE FIRE: Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt. If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area. Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

Use water in large amounts. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Use water spray to cool unopened containers.

Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or alcohol foam extinguishers ... If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. Containers may explode. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position ... The only respirators recommended for fire fighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that have full facepieces and are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode.

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for Picric acid (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The primary hazard is from blast effect where the entire load can explode instantaneously and not from flying projectiles and fragments. /Trinitrophenol, dry/

Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

Explosive decomposition may occur under fire conditions.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

Small Spill

· Flush area with large amounts of water.

Large Spill

· Wet down with water and dike for later disposal.

· KEEP "WETTED" PRODUCT WET BY SLOWLY ADDING FLOODING QUANTITIES OF WATER.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

FIRE: If rail car or trailer is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, initiate evacuation including emergency responders for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial evacuation for 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

· Consider initial evacuation for 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

Remove all ignition sources. Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Sweep up and shovel. Contain spillage, and then collect with an electrically protected vacuum cleaner or by wetbrushing and place in container for disposal according to local regulations.

Evacuate persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until clean-up is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Dampen spilled material with alcohol to avoid dust, then transfer material to a suitable container for eventual disposal. Collect powdered material in the the mose convenient and safe manner and deposit in sealed containers. Ventilate area after clean-up is complete. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. ...

Prompt cleanup and removal are necessary. During cleanup, avoid shock, friction, or heat. With extreme caution, shovel into suitable dry container.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D003, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Product: Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Controlled incineration in a rotary kiln incinerator equipped with particulate abatement and wet scrubber devices. Recommendable method: Incineration. Not recommendable method: Landfill. Peer review: Extreme care. Picric acid is a very shock sensitive high explosive when dry. Do not allow it to remain in contact with metals. Deliberately exploding picric acid using a detonator and booster explosive is an effective disposal method. Never treat a large amount at one time.

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Picric acid (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.

Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Further processing of solid materials may result in the formation of combustible dusts. The potential for combustible dust formation should be taken into consideration before additional processing occurs. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed. Keep away from sources of ignition - No smoking. Take measures to prevent the build up of electrostatic charge.

Appropriate engineering controls: Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wash hands before breaks and immediately after handling the product.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Picric acid (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. DO NOT OPERATE RADIO TRANSMITTERS WITHIN 100 METERS (330 FEET) OF ELECTRIC DETONATORS. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

SMALL SPILL: Flush area with large amounts of water.

LARGE SPILL: Wet down with water and dike for later disposal. KEEP "WETTED" PRODUCT WET BY SLOWLY ADDING FLOODING QUANTITIES OF WATER. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Cool. Substance should be kept wet. Separated from strong oxidants, metals and reducing agents. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Keep wetted with water. Do not allow material to become dry.

Keep in a cool place and remote from fire.

Store in a flammable materials storage area. Prior to working with this chemical you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Store in an explosion-proof refrigerator away from oxidizers, reducing agents, and metals. Where possible, automatically pump liquid from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where this chemical is handled, used, or stored. Metal containers involving the transfer of 5 gallons or more of this chemical should be grounded and bonded. Drums must be equipped with self-closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and flame arresters. Use only non-sparking tools and equipment, especially when opening or closing containers of this chemical. Wherever this chemical is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated detached location. Do not allow material to become dry. Isolate from organic materials; transition and heavy metals.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

0.30 [mg/m3]

17 [mg/m3]

100 [mg/m3]

TWA 0.1 mg/m3 ST 0.3 mg/m3 [skin]

0.1 [mg/m3]

TWA 0.1 mg/m3 [skin]

75 mg/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)

75 mg/m3 [From NPG: Picric acid] (NIOSH, 2024)

75.0 [mg/m3]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Human data: The ingestion of 1 to 2 grams of picric acid has been reported to cause severe poisoning [ACGIH 1991]. [Note: An oral dose of 1 to 2 grams is equivalent to a worker being exposed to 660 to 1,330 mg/m3 for 30 minutes, assuming a breathing rate of 50 liters per minute and 100% absorption.]

75 mg/cu m

75 mg/m3

See: 88891

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 mg/cu m.

Peak Exposure Recommendation: Transient increases in workers' exposure levels may exceed 3 times the value of the TLV-TWA level for no more than 15 minutes at a time, on no more than 4 occasions spaced 1 hour apart during a workday, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the value of the TLV-TWA level. In addition, the 8-hour TWA is not to be exceeded for an 8-hour work period.

0.1 mg/m

skin absorption (H); sensitization of skin (SH); carcinogen category: 3

CARGO Fire

· DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE!

· Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn.

· Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

TIRE or VEHICLE Fire

· Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt.

· If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area.

· Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition.

Australia: 0.1 mg/cu m, peak limitation 0.3 mg/cu m, skin; proposed change: delete STEL and skin (1990); Federal Republic of Germany: 0.1 mg/cu m as total dust, short-term level 0.2 mg/cu m, 5 min, 8 times per shift, danger of cutaneous absorption (1992); United Kingdom: 0.1 mg/cu m, 10-min STEL 0.3 mg/cu m (1991).

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.

The substance is mildly irritating to the eyes.

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. Ingestion may cause effects on the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver and blood.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Picric acid:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin:

• WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

• DAILY - The worker should wash daily at the end of each work shift, and prior to eating, drinking, smoking, etc.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

Change: DAILY - Workers whose clothing may have become contaminated should change into uncontaminated clothing before leaving the work premises. (NIOSH, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

Picric acid, [dry] appears as yellow crystals. An explosive. Specific gravity 1.767. Melting point 251.2 °F (121.8 °C). Explodes at 572 °F. Toxic by ingestion.

"Trinitrophenol (picric acid), Wetted, with not less than 10% water by mass" is a yellow mass of of moist crystals or a slurry. An explosive, but wetting lowers the risk of detonation. Dangerously explosive if allowed to dry out. The pure substance is denser than water (1.77 g cm-3) and moderately soluble in water. Used in synthesis of dyes, as a drug, to manufacture explosives and matches, to etch copper and to make colored glass. Store tightly sealed (to protect from drying out) in a cool, ventilated place, away from acute fire hazards and easily oxidized materials. May be irritating to skin, and mucous membranes. It may be toxic by ingestion.

Picric acid, wetted with not less than 30% water by mass appears as a paste or slurry consisting of the yellow crystalline solid mixed with water. The dry compound is a sensitive high explosive. The mixture with water is considered safe for storage, handling and shipping. Can be detonated with a number 8 electric blasting cap. The primary hazard is blast where the entire load explodes instantaneously and not from flying projectiles fragments. Can explode under prolonged exposure to heat.

Yellow, odorless solid. [Note: Usually used as an aqueous solution.]; [NIOSH]

YELLOW CRYSTALS.

Yellow, odorless solid. [Note: Usually used as an aqueous solution.]

Pale yellow crystals

Yellow solid [Note: Usually used as an aqueous solution]

Yellow leaves from water; prisms from diethyl ether; plates from ethanol

Colorless crystals from ligroin or concentrated hydrochloric acid; yellow leaflets from water

Odorless

Intensely bitter

Explodes above 572 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

greater than 572 °F at 760 mmHg (Sublimes/explodes) (NTP, 1992)

Explodes above 572 °F

BP: Explodes

252 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

251 to 253 °F (NTP, 1992)

122.5 °C

302 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

302 °F (NTP, 1992)

150 °C (302 °F) - closed cup

150 °C c.c.

1 % (NIOSH, 2024)

1 to 10 mg/mL at 75 °F (NTP, 1992)

In water, 1.27X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C

Slightly soluble in water

1 g in 12 mL alcohol, 10 mL benzene, 35 mL chloroform, and 65 mL ether

Soluble in ethanol, ether, benzene, chloroform; very soluble in acetone

Solubility in water, g/100ml: 1.4

1.76 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink

1.763 (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink

1.763 g/cu cm

1.8 g/cm³

1.763 no temp

7.9 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

7.90 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 7.9

1 mmHg at 383 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

less than 1 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

Flammable. Water soluble.

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Water soluble.

Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic

Phenols and Cresols

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Explosive

Strong Oxidizing Agent

CSL00069

Lead salts + PICRIC ACID

Potentially explosive

User-Reported

CSL00100

Lead acetate + PICRIC ACID

CSL00101

PICRIC ACID + LEAD CHLORIDE

PICRIC ACID, [DRY] undergoes vigorous reactions with both oxidizing or reducing agents. Apt to explode when shocked or exposed to heat. Very unstable. Readily forms salts on contact with many metals (including copper, lead, mercury, zinc, nickel, iron) that are more sensitive explosives than picric acid itself when subjected to heat, friction, or impact. Contact with concrete floors may form the friction-sensitive calcium picrate [Urbanski, 1964, vol. 1, p. 518]. Contact with metallic zinc or lead can cause detonation. Salts with ammonia, amines and complexes with hydrocarbons are less sensitive [Kirk-Othmer, 1965, vol. 8, p. 617]. Sufficiently pure samples of picric acid have the same order of stability as TNT [Chem. Eng. News, 1979, 57(41), p. 51]. Impure samples are less stable. Mixtures with aluminum and water will ignite after a delay period [Hajek, V. et al., Research, 1951, 4, p. 186].

"Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 10% water by mass" is a desensitized explosive. Can act as an oxidizing agent. If mixed with strong reducing agent, may explode on contact or begin a vigorous reaction that culminates in a detonation. Forms salts and other adducts with concrete, ammonia, and other bases and also with many metals (including copper, lead, mercury, zinc, nickel, iron). These materials may detonate when subjected to heat, friction, or impact inducing an explosion in the unreacted picric acid. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents such as chlorates and nitrates. Can ignite and burn if dried out. Heat built up in confined spaces when large quantities burn can cause detonation. Emits highly toxic fumes of NOx and explodes when heated to decomposition.

PICRIC ACID, WETTED WITH NOT LESS THAN 30% WATER BY MASS undergoes vigorous reactions with both oxidizing or reducing agents. Burns if ignited by a flame and continues to burns quietly if the quantity is small or, if large, is thinly spread over an area. The dry compound can explode if shocked or exposed to heat. Wetting significantly reduces the tendency to explode. Readily forms salts on contact with many metals (including copper, lead, mercury, zinc, nickel, iron). The salts are sensitive explosives when subjected to heat, friction, or impact. Contact with concrete floors may form the friction-sensitive explosive calcium picrate [Urbanski, 1964, vol. 1, p. 518]. Contact with metallic zinc or lead can cause detonation. Salts with ammonia, amines and complexes with hydrocarbons are less sensitive [Kirk-Othmer, 1965, vol. 8, p. 617].

Incompatible materials: Strong bases, reducing agents, heavy metals, heavy metal salts, ammonia.

... Can react vigorously with oxidizing materials ... It forms unstable salts with concrete, /ammonia/, bases, and metals (e.g., copper, lead, mercury, and zinc). Many of these are heat-, friction-, or impact-sensitive. Mixtures with uranium perchlorate are extremely powerful explosives. Mixtures with aluminum and water ignite after a delay period. Can react vigorously with reducing materials.

Dry mixtures of picric acid and aluminum powder are inert, but addition of water causes ignition after a delay dependent upon the quantity added.

Ammonia and metals with picric acid give results similar to bases.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Picric acid (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Copper, lead, zinc & other metals; salts; plaster; concrete; ammonia [Note: Corrosive to metals. An explosive mixture results when the aqueous solution crystallizes.]

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Picric acid is a yellow solid. It is used in explosives, matches, electric batteries, in the leather industry, for etching copper, in the manufacture colored glass, and as a textile mordant. It is also a reagent for preparation of organic derivatives for chemical identification. HUMAN STUDIES: Picric acid dust or fumes cause irritation of eyes, and this may be aggravated by sensitization. Skin contact with the dry powder of picric acid or ammonium picrate powder caused sensitization dermatitis among workers. The face was usually involved, especially around the mouth and sides of the nose. Edema, papules, vesicles, and finally desquamation developed. Potential symptoms of overexposure also include yellow stained hair and skin, weakness, myalgia, anuria, polyuria, bitter taste, GI disturbances, hepatitis, hematuria, albuminuria, and nephritis. Systemic poisoning following the absorption of picric acid caused symptoms of headache, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Yellow coloration of the skin and conjunctiva have occurred, and there have been reports of darkened or port wine-colored urine. During the 1920's and 30's picric acid was used both alone and in combination with butyl aminobenzoate as an antiseptic surgical dressing for treatment of burns. A serious dysfunction of the central nervous system following topical application of picric acid was reported. Approximately 4% of the patients treated with picric acid were sensitive and developed a local dermatitis. ANIMAL STUDIES: Blood gas analysis indicated severe acidosis during acute intoxication. After an acute lethal dose of picric acid, dogs died from respiratory paralysis. Autopsy results demonstrated the presence of yellow staining of the subcutaneous fat, lung, intestines and blood vessels. Swelling of the liver and glomerulitis were also observed. Sublethal doses of picric acid less than or equal to 50 mg/kg in dogs have resulted in transitory changes in the kidney, including glomerulitis and other changes in kidney ultrastructure. Mutagenic assays of picric acid were carried out with histidine-requiring strains of Salmonella typhimurium. Picric acid (10 micrograms per plate) demonstrated mutagenicity (both frame shift and base substitution-type mutations) only after metabolic activation. Picric acid was reported to be positive for the induction of sex-linked recessive lethal mutations in Drosophila melanogaster. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: No significant inhibition of growth was observed for rainbow trout exposed to 0.45 and 0.05 mg/L picric acid. American oysters exposed to 0.45 and 0.05 mg/L picric acid showed significant inhibition of shell deposition during exposure period. Discoloration of nacre layer of the shell and body mass was observed in oysters.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by ingestion.

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Headache. Nausea. Vomiting.

Redness.

Headache. Dizziness. Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea.

irritation eyes, skin; sensitization dermatitis; yellow-stained hair, skin; lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), myalgia, anuria, polyuria; bitter taste, gastrointestinal disturbance; hepatitis, hematuria (blood in the urine), albuminuria, nephritis

Eyes, skin, kidneys, liver, blood

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Skin Sensitizer - An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.

Picric Acid (2,4,6-Trinitrophenol)

2 x 10^-3 mg/kg-day

6 x 10^-3 mg/kg-day

PDF Document

Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential

SCREEN Current

PPRTV Current

LD50 Rat (male) oral 290 mg/kg

LD50 Rat (female) oral 200 mg/kg

Fifty mg/kg of picric acid injected ip into rats 30 min before morphine, meperidine, methadone, pentazocine, etonitazene, aminopyrine, sodium salicylate and pentobarbital potentiated analgesia and sleeping time induced by these drugs, but had no effect on pentylenetetrazole and amphetamine.

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Dinitrophenol and Related Compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . Rapid body cooling may be necessary in case of hyperthermia. Salicylates are contraindicated. /Dinitrophenol and Related Compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. For dehydration and hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Dinitrophenol and Related Compounds/

If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least 15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts the skin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. ...

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Effects on the skin are apparent when picric acid is applied in concentration well below those necessary for oral systemic poisoning. Of 71 individuals exposed to concentrations ranging from 0.0088-0.1947 mg/cu m, dermatitis developed only among those exposed to the lower concentrations, indicating that desensitization or adaptation reactions may occur.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Ingestion of 1 to 2 g of picric acid in humans causd severe poisoning.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Potential symptoms of overexposure are irritation of eyes, skin; sensitization dermatitis; yellow stained hair, skin; weakness, myalgia, anuria, polyuria; bitter taste, GI disturbances; hepatitis; hematuria, albuminuria, nephritis.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Systemic poisoning following the absorption of picric acid caused symptoms of headache, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Yellow coloration of the skin and conjunctiva occurred, and there were reports of darkened or port wine-colored urine. High doses caused destruction of the erythrocytes and produced gastroenteritis, hemorrhagic nephritis and acute hepatitis.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Picric acid (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The LD50 for picric acid following oral dosing of male and female /Fischer 344/ rats was established as 290 and 200 mg/kg, respectively. Blood gas analysis indicated severe acidosis during acute intoxication.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The lowest published lethal dose (LDLo) for picric acid in the rabbit and cat are 120 and 500 mg/kg, respectively, while the lethal dose in the dog is 100-125 mg/kg following subcutaneous injection. After an acute lethal dose of picric acid, dogs died from respiratory paralysis. Autopsy results demonstrated the presence of yellow staining of the subcutaneous fat, lung, intestines and blood vessels. Swelling of the liver and glomerulitis were also observed. Sublethal doses of picric acid less than or equal to 50 mg/kg in dogs have resulted in transitory changes in the kidney, including glomerulitis and other changes in kidney ultrastructure.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ The toxicity of oral 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) was determined in newborn rats, and compared with that in young rats. In newborn rats, males and females were given TNP at 0, 16.3, 81.4 or 407 mg/kg per day on postnatal days (PND) 4-17 for the dose-finding study, and at 0, 4.1, 16.3 or 65.1 mg/kg per day on PND 4-21 for the main study. Deaths, lower body weight (BW) and behavioral changes were found at 81.4 and 407 mg/kg per day in the dose-finding study, and lower BW was observed in males at 65.1 mg/kg per day during the dosing period of the main study. In young rats, 5-week-old males and females were given TNP at 0, 20, 100 or 500 mg/kg per day for 14 days as the dose-finding study and at 0, 4, 20 or 100 mg/kg per day for 28 days as the main study. Deaths were observed at 500 mg/kg per day in the dose-finding study. Deaths or changes in BW were not found at 100 mg/kg per day or less. At 100 mg/kg per day, hemolytic anemia and testicular toxicity were found. In conclusion, toxicity profiles induced by TNP were ... different between newborn and young rats.

/GENOTOXICITY/ A strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa reduced 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (picric acid) to 2-amino-4,6-dinitrophenol (picramic acid) under anaerobic conditions. Mutagenic assays of picric acid and picramic acid were carried out with histidine-requiring strains of Salmonella typhimurium. Picric acid (10 micrograms per plate) demonstrated mutagenicity (both frame shift and base substitution-type mutations) only after activation with a rat liver homogenate preparation. Picramic acid (1 microgram per plate) induced both base pair substitution and frame shift-type mutations without activation by the rat liver preparation.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Picric acid (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Status of Agents Search page, which tabulates the results and current status of tests such as "Short-Term Toxicity Studies", "Long-term Carcinogenicity Studies", "Developmental Studies", "Genetic Toxicology Studies", etc., performed with this chemical. Testing status for picric acid is available.[Available from, as of March 27, 2018: https://ntpsearch.niehs.nih.gov/?e=True&ContentType=Testing+Status]

LC50; Species: Nitocra spinipes (Harpacticoid Copepod) age 2-4 wk, adult; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C; Concentration: 72000 ug/L for 96 hr /formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 6-24 hr newborn, clone 1; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, dissolved oxygen >80%; Concentration: 104000 ug/L for 24 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 6-24 hr newborn, clone 1; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, dissolved oxygen >80%; Concentration: 55000 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /formulation/

LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp) age 4 days, juvenile; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0-8.0, dissolved oxygen 70-121%; Concentration: 13000 ug/L for 96 hr /> or =99% purity/

LC50; Species: Nitocra spinipes (Harpacticoid Copepod) age 2-4 wk, adult; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C; Concentration: 72000 ug/L for 96 hr /formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 6-24 hr newborn, clone 1; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, dissolved oxygen >80%; Concentration: 104000 ug/L for 24 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 6-24 hr newborn, clone 1; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, dissolved oxygen >80%; Concentration: 55000 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobilization /formulation/

LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp) age 4 days, juvenile; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0-8.0, dissolved oxygen 70-121%; Concentration: 13000 ug/L for 96 hr /> or =99% purity/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Picric acid (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Juvenile rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) and American oyster (Crassostrea virginica) were exposed to sublethal doses of picric acid and picramic acid for 42 days. No significant inhibition of growth was observed for rainbow trout exposed to 0.45 and 0.05 mg/L picric acid. American oysters exposed to 0.45 and 0.05 mg/L picric acid showed significant inhibition of shell deposition during exposure period. Discoloration of nacre layer of the shell and body mass was observed in oysters exposed to both compounds by the end of 42 days.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Picramic acid was more toxic than picric acid to rainbow trout and American oysters. Sublethal no growth median effective concentrations (EC50) and shell deposition ED50 for oysters showed that both compounds caused adverse effects at much lower concentrations than indicated by the LD50 values. The 144 hr shell deposition EC50s were 27.9 mg/L for picric acid and 5.6 mg/L for picramic acid. Sediment adsorption studies in estuarine water indicated that both compounds are not readily adsorbed. Oysters, which filter large quantities of particulate matter, would more likely be affected by picric acid and picramic acid.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ A toxicity database for ordnance compounds was generated using eight compounds of concern /including picric acid/ and marine toxicity tests with five species from different phyla. Toxicity tests and endpoints included fertilization success and embryological development with the sea urchin Arbacia punctulata; zoospore germination, germling length, and cell number with the green macroalga Ulva fasciata; survival and reproductive success of the polychaete Dinophilus gyrociliatus; larvae hatching and survival with the redfish Sciaenops ocellatus; and survival of juveniles of the opossum shrimp Americamysis bahia (formerly Mysidopsis bahia). ... The most sensitive toxicity test endpoints overall were the macroalga zoospore germination and the polychaete reproduction tests. The most toxic ordnance compounds overall were tetryl and 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene. These were also the most degradable compounds, often being reduced to very low or below-detection levels at the end of the test exposure. Among the dinitro- and trinitrotoluenes and benzenes, toxicity tended to increase with the level of nitrogenation. Picric acid and RDX were the least toxic chemicals tested overall.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Toxicological and chemical studies were performed with a silty and a sandy marine sediment spiked with 2,6-dinitrotoluene (2,6-DNT), 2,4,6-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl), or 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (picric acid). Whole sediment toxicity was analyzed by the 10-day survival test with the amphipod Ampelisca abdita, and porewater toxicity tests assessed macro-algae (Ulva fasciata) zoospore germination and germling growth, sea urchin (Arbacia punctulata) embryological development, and polychaete (Dinophilus gyrociliatus) survival and reproduction. ... The ... picric acid LC50 in the sandy sediment /was/ 144 mg/kg dry weight ... . The fine-grained sediment spiked with picric acid generated a U-shaped concentration-response curve in the amphipod test, with increased survival both in the lowest and highest concentration. Grain-size distribution and organic carbon content strongly influenced the behavior of ordnance compounds in spiked sediments. ... Porewater toxicity varied with its sedimentary origin and with ordnance compound. The sea urchin embryological development test tended to be the least sensitive. /Picric acid was the least/ toxic chemical in all porewater tests ... .

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The effects of phenol, 4-chlorophenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol, pentachlorophenol, 3-methylphenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethylphenol, 2,4-dinitrophenol and 2,4,6-trinitrophenol on the crayfish A. astacus medial giant axon were studied using intracellular microelectrodes. Phenols which are largely nonionized at physiological pH produced a rather specific inhibition of voltage-dependent K conductance. ... The weakly ionized phenols caused motor excitation and discoordination in intact crayfish. The more acid derivatives had a depressant effect. ...

1.30e+02

1.60e+03

4.00e+01

5.00e+02

1.90e-01

2.00e-03

Volatile

3.80e+02

4.90e+03

1.20e+02

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Picric acid's production and use in the manufacture of explosives, matches and electric batteries, and in the leather and textile industries may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 7.5X10-7 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates picric acid will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase picric acid will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 110 days. Particulate-phase picric acid will be removed from the atmosphere by wet or dry deposition. Picric acid contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, picric acid is expected to have slight mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 2250. The pKa of picric acid is 0.42, indicating that this compound will exist entirely in the anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts. Volatilization from moist soil is not expected because the compound exists as an anion and anions do not volatilize. Picric acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 23% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks indicating that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process. If released into water, picric acid is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Mixed cultures of phenol adapted microorganisms exhibited little or no oxygen uptake in the presence of picric acid, suggesting that picric acid is resistant to degradation under aerobic conditions. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's pKa. BCFs of <2.2 measured in carp suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. The picric acid concentration in sterile pore water decreased at 20 °C over 28 days, suggesting that unknown abiotic breakdown processes contribute to picric acid transformation. Under simulated solar radiation, picric acid concentration in seawater decreased over 47 days exposure. Occupational exposure to picric acid may occur through inhalation dust or its salts and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where picric acid is produced or used. (SRC)

Picric acid's production and use in the manufacture of explosives, matches and electric batteries, and in the leather and textile industries(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 2250(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that picric acid is expected to have slight mobility in soil(SRC). The pKa of picric acid is 0.42(3), indicating that this compound will exist entirely in the anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4). Volatilization of the anion from moist soil is not expected because anions do not volatilize(SRC). Picric acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 7.5X10-7 mm Hg at 25 °C(5). A 23% of Theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(6) suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 2250(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that picric acid is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). A pKa of 0.42(3) indicates picric acid will exist entirely in the anion form at pH values of 5 to 9 and, therefore, volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). The picric acid concentration in sterile pore water decreased from 2000 umoles/L to <1500 umoles/L at 20 °C after 28 days, suggesting that hydrolysis or other unknown abiotic breakdown processes contribute to picric acid transformation(4). According to a classification scheme(5), BCFs of <2.2 measured in carp (Cyprinus carpio)(6) suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Under simulated solar radiation, the picric acid concentration in seawater decreased from 3510.55 umoles/L to 3206.05 umoles/L after 47 days exposure(4). Mixed cultures of phenol adapted microorganisms exhibited little or no oxygen uptake in the presence of picric acid(7-8), suggesting that picric acid is resistant to degradation under aerobic conditions(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), picric acid, which has a vapor pressure of 7.5X10-7 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase picric acid is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 110 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.4X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Particulate-phase picric acid may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC). Picric acid contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Mixed cultures of phenol adapted microorganisms exhibited little or no oxygen uptake in the presence of picric acid(1-2), suggesting that picric acid is resistant to degradation under aerobic conditions. Picric acid, present at 100 mg/L, reached 23% of its Theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(3).

AEROBIC: Picric acid resisted biodegradation by adapted activated sludge.

PURE CULTURE: Pseudomonas aurantiaca and P. fluorescens reduced the nitrogen dioxide in picric acid to NH2 efficiently in waters; the P-NO2 first followed by the O-NO2 group.

PURE CULTURE: ... The microbial degradation of picric acid by Pseudomonas aeruginosa /was reported/. ... The picric acid was reduced to 2-amino-4,6-dinitrophenol (picramic acid), showing preferential reduction of the 2-nitro group.

PURE CULTURE: Under anaerobic conditions, picric acid was transformed to 2-amino-4,6-dinitrophenol by pure cultures of Pseudomonas aeruginosa(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of picric acid with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.4X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 110 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The picric acid concentration in sterile pore water decreased from 2000 umoles/L to <1500 umoles/L at 20 °C after 28 days, suggesting that unknown abiotic breakdown processes contribute to picric acid transformation in marine sediments(2). Picric acid contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC). Under simulated solar radiation, the picric acid concentration in seawater decreased from 3510.55 umoles/L to 3206.05 umoles/L after 47 days exposure(2).

Under alkaline pH, 2-amino-4,6-dinitrophenol was a major photolytic product of picric acid... effect of UV light on ... /picric acid/ at alkaline pH, where red aci-nitro quinoid form becomes significant, picramic acid was major product ... esters of nitrophenols were rapidly photolyzed to parent nitrophenol.

... /It has been shown/ that alkaline solutions of picric acid were photolyzed in high yield in visible light to a mixture of 3,5-dinitrocatechol and 2,6-dinitrohydroquinone (or its quinone). The reaction probably represents photonucleophilic displacement of nitro group (as nitrite ion) similar to that observed in p-nitroanisole.

BCF values of <0.24 and <2.2 were measured in carp (Cyprinus carpio) exposed to 500 ug/L and 50 ug/L of picric acid, respectively, over a 6 week exposure period(1). According to a classification scheme(2), these BCF values suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of picric acid can be estimated to be 2250(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that picric acid is expected to have slight mobility in soil. The pKa of picric acid is 0.24(3), indicating that this compound will exist entirely in anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4).

A pKa of 0.42(1) indicates picric acid will exist almost entirely in the anion form at pH values of 5 to 9 and therefore volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). Picric acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure of 7.5X10-7 mm Hg at 25 °C(2).

GROUNDWATER: Picric acid was detected at a concentration of 0.7 mg/L in a well located approximately 1 mile from a plant engaged in the manufacture of explosives from 1914-1918.

DRINKING WATER: Picric acid was detected in water collected in 2002 from a water factory on the Tanking River in China, at a concentration of 0.0063 ug/L(1).

SURFACE WATER: Picric acid was detected in water samples collected in 2002 from one station near a water factory of the Huanchao River, and from another stations in the middle reach of the Tanking River in China, at concentrations of 0.036 and 0.0055 ug/L, respectively(2).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D003, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Product: Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Controlled incineration in a rotary kiln incinerator equipped with particulate abatement and wet scrubber devices. Recommendable method: Incineration. Not recommendable method: Landfill. Peer review: Extreme care. Picric acid is a very shock sensitive high explosive when dry. Do not allow it to remain in contact with metals. Deliberately exploding picric acid using a detonator and booster explosive is an effective disposal method. Never treat a large amount at one time.

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for Picric acid (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. DRIED OUT material may explode if exposed to heat, flame, friction or shock; treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Keep material wet with water or treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. /Picric acid, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 30% water; Picric acid, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 10% water/

/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Health: Some are toxic and may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Picric acid, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 30% water; Picric acid, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 10% water/

/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Picric acid, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 30% water; Picric acid, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 10% water/

/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Picric acid, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 30% water; Picric acid, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 10% water/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Picric acid (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1344 113(wet, > or =10% water)

3364 113(wetted, > or =10% water)

UN 0154; Trinitrophenol or Picric acid, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass

UN 1344; Trinitrophenol, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass

UN 3364; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 10% water by mass

IMO 1.1D; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass

IMO 4.1; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 30% water, by mass; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 10% water, by mass

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Trinitrophenol, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by weight; trinitrophenol, wetted with 30% or more water, by weight; and trinitrophenol, wetted, with 10% or more water but less than 30% water, by weight are included on the dangerous goods list. /Trinitrophenol, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by weight; Trinitrophenol, wetted with 30% or more water, by weight; Trinitrophenol, wetted, with 10% or more water but less than 30% water, by weight/

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. Trinitrophenol (picric acid), dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass; trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 30% water, by mass; and trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 10% water, by mass are included on the dangerous goods list. / Trinitrophenol (picric acid), dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 30% water, by mass; Trinitrophenol (picric acid), wetted, with not less than 10% water, by mass/

Explosive 1.1D

Flammable Solid

Special material.

Symbol: E, T; R: 3-4-23/24/25; S: (1/2)-28-35-36/37-45

UN Hazard Class: 1.1D