Identification of Barbiturates by X-ray Diffraction Powder Patterns of Their p-Nitrobenzyl Derivatives

Abstract

The identification of barbituric acids by the x-ray powder diffraction method is discussed from the practical point of view. Data are presented showing the advantage of preparing the p-nitrobenzyl derivative whenever identification of the isolated free acid is either doubtful or considered impossible. A detailed account of the experimental micro technique is given and the applicability of the technique to pharmaceutical products as forensic specimens is discussed.