Page 69 - Encyclopedia of Chemical Compounds 3 Vols

2,4,6 TRINITROTOLUENE

Words to Know

CARCINOGEN A chemical that causes cancer
in humans or other animals.

• Amatol, a combination of TNT and ammonium nitrate,
is often substituted for TNT in ordnance (weapons);
• Minol, a variation of amatol that includes 20 percent
aluminum to increase its explosive power; and
• Baratol, a mixture of TNT and barium nitrate that
explodes more slowly than pure TNT.
In addition to its primary use in explosives, 2,4,6-tri-
nitrotoluene is also used to produce a very attractive yellow
tint in the manufacture of dyes and photographic chemicals.
2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is a hazardous chemical that can pro-
duce both short- and long-term health effects, such as respira-
tory problems, skin irritation, anemia, and lung damage. Some
research shows the compound may be carcinogenic in labora-
tory animals, but not in humans. Since most people are never
exposed to TNT, these hazards are primarily of concern to men
and women engaged in the manufacture or use of TNT.

FOR FURT H ER INFOR M ATIO N
Cooper, P. W., and S. R. Kurowski. Introduction to the Technology
of Explosives. New York: Wiley VCH, 1997.
‘‘Public Health Statement for 2,4,6 Trinitrotoluene.’’ Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/phs81.html (accessed
September 15, 2005).

18 CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS