TNT molecule. Molecular model of trinitrotoluene (TNT, formula C7H5N3O6), also known as 2,4,6- trinitromethylbenzene. In the model, carbon atoms are black, hydrogen are white, nitrogen are blue and oxygen are red. TNT forms yellow crystals. It was first synthesised in 1863 by the nitration of toluene with nitric and sulphuric acids. It found its greatest use as an explosive in weapons during World War 1. In peacetime, explosives are used for demolition and mining work. TNT has been largely superceded by more efficient and destructive explosives.