Abstract: In a process for the production of the explosive material 2,2',4,4',6,6'-hexanitrostilbene in which 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is reacted with an alkali or alkaline earth metal hypochlorite in a solution to precipitate the product, the yield is improved by adding to the mixture, subsequent to commencement of the reaction, a nitrogeneous base. The nitrogeneous base is particularly one having a pKa of 9.25 to 11.25 and an organic amine is especially preferred. The base is added at least 0.5 minute after starting the reaction, and the mixture is stood thereafter for a period which is preferably about 2 hours.