TNT is the abbreviation of Trinitrotoluene and this is a chemical compound. This is a very popular chemical compound that is used as an explosive. But it can be used only when it is in solid form.
What does TNT Stand for and How it was Invented?
It is a form of organic Nitrogen compound but when it is in liquid form, it can not be used as an explosive. It is so insensitive to the factors present in the air or surrounding that at first, it was not recognised as an explosive.
The chemical compound was first invented by a German chemist. He did not know back then that it can be used as an explosive. He prepared it and used it as a yellow dye. It was invented after the gradual process of nitration of Toluene. Nitration is the chemical process in which a Nitro group is incorporated into an organic compound. TNT is made by following this process.
The Usage of TNT and The Characteristics:
- The chemical compound, first used as a dye, has multiple usages in today’s world.
- The chemists could not recognise it as an explosive because, in liquid form, it does not react with anything.
- It is also insensitive to any kind of friction and shock. That is why, from the very beginning of 20 the century, TNT was started to use as an explosive in the form of bombs, grenades etc.
- It is not dissolvable in water or any kind of liquid that makes it appropriate to use in humid weather.
- In order to work as an explosive, TNT needs pressure from the outside.
- It can be mixed with any form of explosive chemical compounds at the melting point.
- It is highly hazardous in case it is coming in close contact with the animal skin. It can cause severe skin irritation if it comes with close contact with human skin.
- It can affect male or female fertility if it is not used by following proper precautions.
- Human beings can suffer from liver dysfunction or other health problems if they have been coming in contact with TNT for a prolonged period of time.
- It is also hazardous for the environment. This is highly toxic in nature and affects the soil, groundwater, air negatively in case of contamination.
TNT should only be handled by experts and should be used under proper guidance.