Dinitro-naphthol
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
Dinitro-naphthol is a chemical compound whose sodium and calcium salts were historically known as Martius yellow or naphthalene yellow. The article describes its chemical properties and notes that it was formerly used as a toxic food dye before being banned.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
DINITRO-NAPHTHOL (chemical formula C10H6(NO2)2OH), in the form of its sodium and calcium salts, bears the name of Martius yellow (Martiusgelb), or naphthalene yellow dye. In its action and significance, it is similar to dinitro-cresol (Viktoriagelb). It formerly had great significance as a prohibited (poisonous) dye for food products. Upon reduction with zinc and hydrochloric acid, it yields a diamine that is oxidized by atmospheric oxygen with a yellowish-brown coloration (distinguishing it from picric acid and dinitro-cresol).
Related articles
Cite this page
“Dinitro-naphthol.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/dinitro-naphthol/