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Hi Nancy, If the pedagogical purpose behind the experiment is to perform a nitration, then perhaps you could use a different reaction which would yield a less hazardous product. There are many procedures for undergraduate nitration experiments. We typically start with methyl benzoate. Of course, the issue with all nitration reactions in an undergraduate lab is keeping concentrated nitric acid out of inappropriate waste containers. And the use of concentrated acids in even small quantities can be challenging from a safety standpoint. I have our students wear lab coats and acid aprons for the nitrations (in addition to the usual goggles and gloves, of course), just to prevent any issues. Hope that's helpful, Kristi ________________________________ From: DCHAS-L Discussion List on behalf of Richardson, Nancy A (Faculty Biology/Chemistry) Sent: Mon 5/10/2010 4:50 PM To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU Subject: [DCHAS-L] Picric Acid Synthesis I was wondering what sort of safety procedures should be used when undergraduates synthesize picric acid. Also, what one should do with the material after it is made? As I remember the disposal cost is rather high and it is not something one wants to store long term especially if it likely to be forgotten about. We have organic students that want to do special projects and a few want the opportunity to make picric acid. Thanks for any comments and help on this. Nancy Richardson