Picric Acid Was Also Used As A Yellow Dye In The Textile Sectors

Picric Acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H3N3O7. It is a derivative of phenol and contains three nitro functional groups (-NO2) attached to the phenol ring. The nitro groups make picric acid a highly reactive and explosive compound. Picric acid is a yellow crystalline solid with a bitter taste and a faint, sweet odor. It is sparingly soluble in water and ethanol but dissolves readily in ether, acetone, and other organic solvents. Picric acid has a melting point of 122-123°C and a boiling point of 309°C.
Picric Acid has been used extensively in the manufacture of munitions and explosives, particularly during World War I and World War II. It was used to make TNT (trinitrotoluene) and other high explosives, and as a filling for artillery shells and bombs. Picric acid was also used as a yellow dye in the textile industry. Today, picric acid has limited use due to its high sensitivity and instability. It is still used in some laboratories as a stain for histology and cytology specimens.