Trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (C6H3N3O9S) is a nitroaryl oxidizing acid and explosive, used in biochemical research.
Uses Its primary usage is primarily to neutralize peptide terminal amino groups in scientific research.Trinitrobenzenesulfonic Acid, Comparative Toxicogenomics Database. Occasionally it is used as a detonator for certain other explosive compounds.
The compound is currently being investigated for its effects on the immune system. It is used to induce colitis in the colon of laboratory animals in order to model inflammatory bowel disease and post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome.
Safety precautions The compound has generally not been investigated for toxicity. However, the primary hazard of working with 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid is the risk of explosion. Similar to other polynitroaryl acids (e.g. picric acid, TNT), 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid can explode when heated strongly and mechanically disturbed, even in the presence of common phlegmatizers such as water. It will rapidly heat to ignition if exposed to medium-strong reducing agents, including hydrides, sulfides, and nitrides.Transport safety advice, via NOAA Office of Response and Restoration's CAMEO Chemicals, version 3.1.0 revision 2. Accessed 10 April 2026.
References