A method for the identification of gelignite explosives was developed. After a preliminary examination of the sample for odor, color, consistency, and visually observable ingredients, 2 milligrams or more of the unmodified explosive was placed on a white spot plate. Various reagents were added and color changes were noted. Nitroglycerine (5563) and ammonium-nitrate (6484522) were assayed by addition of alcohol with Nessler's reagent and diphenylamine or sulfanilic-acid, respectively. Organic nitrobodies and nitramines, such as nitroglycerine, were assayed by addition of tetramethylammonium-hydroxide, piperidine, or thymol. The inorganic cations sodium (7440235), calcium (7440702), barium (7440393), and manganese (7439965) were observed by flame test, fluorescence, or formation of manganese-dioxide. The inorganic anions chloride, phosphate, and carbonate were detected by color change after addition of appropriate cations. Carbonaceous materials were assayed by reagents for wood meal, husk meal, and starch. Sulfur (7704349) and aluminum (7429905) were note by testing with lead-acetate and aluminum, respectively. The authors conclude that the presence and absence of certain ingredients is diagnostic for the known compositions of gelignite explosives. Results can be compared with the manufacturer's data to confirm identification. The method can be modified for small samples by extracting the sample with ether and water and testing for nitroglycerine and ammonium-nitrate, followed by preliminary testing for other elements. This scheme of analysis can provide a full identification of a sample of unknown explosives in about 10 minutes.