Picric acid assay

Picric acid, or 2,4,6-trinitrophenol, is a nitro-based organic compound historically used as an explosive, antiseptic, and dye. Although its use is now severely restricted, traces can still be detected in some older materials, industrial residues, used solvents, or chemical effluents. Due to its high reactivity, oxidizing power, and toxicity, picric acid is classified as a hazardous substance. Its storage and use are strictly regulated by European and international regulations (CLP, REACH, ICPE, etc.).

The detection and quantification of picric acid is therefore a critical safety step for industries, waste treatment operators or those responsible for the conservation of historical materials.

Why measure picric acid?

Picric acid analysis is recommended in several industrial and environmental contexts:

• Safety control in workshops or laboratories using explosives, ancient pigments, nitrated solvents;
• Environmental monitoring of soils, water, waste or leachate from classified or remediated sites;
• Analysis of potentially contaminated heritage materials (museums, archives, old technical objects);
• Regulatory monitoring of toxic substances in water, air or finished products, within the framework of REACH or ICPE compliance.

Reliable detection helps prevent risks associated with the accidental handling of unstable residues, or ensures compliance of industrial discharges with permitted limit values.

Available analytical methods

YesWeLab offers several validated techniques for detecting and quantifying picric acid, depending on the matrix and the required thresholds:

• HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography): reference technique for the separation and precise quantification of nitroaromatic compounds;
• UV-Vis spectrophotometry: a fast and sensitive method for simple aqueous solutions;
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry): ideal for complex or multi-component matrices;
• Specific titrimetry: in certain cases of prepared solutions or process controls.

All methods are carried out in ISO 17025 accredited laboratories, with validation of analytical performance (limit of detection, quantification, uncertainty).

Analyzed matrices

Matrices in which picric acid determination is commonly performed include:

• Industrial water (effluents, rinse water, treated or raw wastewater)
• Chemical or technical waste resulting from nitrate processes or pyrotechnic treatments
• Historical materials (old papers, fabrics, military or laboratory equipment)
• Solvents and residual extracts from chemical syntheses
• Contaminated environmental media (soils, sediments, leachates)

This type of analysis is also used in decontamination protocols, to check the complete elimination of traces of explosives or nitrate derivatives.

Additional analytical services

To strengthen your regulatory or environmental controls, YesWeLab recommends combining picric acid testing with other specific analyses available in our catalogue:

• Assessment of COD and BOD in industrial wastewater

These services allow for a complete characterization of chemical risks and compliance with ICPE, ISO 14001 or REACH requirements.

Why choose YesWeLab for this type of analysis?

YesWeLab offers you quick and centralized access to a network of expert laboratories in environmental and regulated analyses, rigorously selected according to the following criteria:

• COFRAC / ISO 17025 / ICPE / GLP accreditations
• High analytical sensitivity on complex matrices
• Fast turnaround times for critical or regulated analyses
• Full traceability of samples via our digital platform
• Personalized scientific advice in case of safety or compliance issues

Since 2020, our solution has been used by manufacturers and engineering firms to manage analyses

Request a quote for picric acid analysis

Do you need to test for the presence of picric acid in your matrices or validate the conformity of waste or materials?
Contact our scientific team or submit your analysis request directly through our online platform.