State of New Jersey
Department of Health and Senior Services
PO Box 360
Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0360

April 1987

Attention: All School Administrators

C A U T I O N

Picric Acid is distributed by the manufacturers wet with greater than 10% water and is classified as a flammable solid. As the water evaporates over time, the substance becomes dry forming Picric Acid crystals. Dry Picric Acid is Highly Explosive as well as when it is combined with metals such as copper, lead, zinc, and iron. It will also react with alkaline materials including plaster and concrete to form explosive materials. This material is very shock sensitive and corrosive to metal containers.

Picric Acid is usually found in science laboratories and chemical storage rooms, and is commonly used for staining of cells during biology experiments.

• Check your chemical inventory list and your Right to Know surveys to determine if any containers of Picric Acid are present at your facility.
• Conduct a search of all science laboratories and chemical storage rooms or any other areas where containers of chemicals may be found
• If a container of Picric Acid is found, DO NOT attempt to open the container. Treat ALL containers of Picric Acid as if the Picric Acid has crystallized. The container may explode upon opening due to crystals located between the grooves of the cap and the threads.
• DO NOT attempt to remove or relocate the container. Shock or heat may cause an explosion.

If Picric Acid is found at your facility or if you have any questions, contact the New Jersey State Department of Health and Senior Services at (609) 984-1863 for proper disposal methods.

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Last Updated: December 1, 1997