The preparation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene TNT from toluene and nitric acid involves a series of nitration reactions. The optimal reaction conditions for this process are as follows:1. First Nitration introduction of the first nitro group :- Temperature: 0 to 10C keeping the reaction mixture cold helps to minimize the formation of undesired by-products - Pressure: Atmospheric pressure- Concentration: A mixture of concentrated nitric acid HNO3 and concentrated sulfuric acid H2SO4 is used as the nitrating agent. A typical ratio is 1:1 v/v of HNO3 to H2SO4. The toluene to acid ratio is usually around 1:3 to 1:5 v/v .2. Second and Third Nitration introduction of the second and third nitro groups :- Temperature: 60 to 80C higher temperatures are needed for further nitration - Pressure: Atmospheric pressure- Concentration: A mixture of concentrated nitric acid HNO3 and concentrated sulfuric acid H2SO4 is used as the nitrating agent. A typical ratio is 1:1 v/v of HNO3 to H2SO4. The toluene to acid ratio is usually around 1:3 to 1:5 v/v .The overall yield of the reaction depends on the efficiency of the nitration process and the purification steps. In a well-controlled laboratory setting, the yield of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene can be around 90-95%. However, in industrial-scale production, the yield may be lower due to various factors such as impurities in the starting materials, side reactions, and losses during the purification process.