Organic Peroxides

What are organic peroxides?

Organic peroxides, or peroxidizable chemicals are materials that undergo a reaction with the oxygen in the air to form peroxides. These peroxides can decompose or explode with impact, heat or friction.

What are some common types of organic peroxides?

  • dialkyl peroxides
  • hydroperoxides
  • diacyl peroxides
  • peroxydicarbonates
  • peroxyesters
  • ketone peroxides
  • peroxyketals
  • alkylperoxy carbonates

Classes of Organic Peroxides

Class 

Description

1

capable of deflagration, but not detonation

2

burn rapidly and that present a moderate reactivity hazard

3

burn rapidly and that present a moderate reactivity hazard

4

burn in the same manner as ordinary combustibles and that present a minimal reactivity hazard

5

burn with less intensity than ordinary combustibles or do not sustain combustion and that present no reactivity hazard

How do I properly handle organic peroxides?

  • Always store at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer
  • Never return unused material back to the original container.
  • Only use clean equipment and work in a clean environment
  • Always wear proper personal protective equipment, such as goggles, lab coat and closed toe shoes
  • Avoid breathing in any dust or mists given off by the materials


Page last modified March 2, 2015