Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Peroxide forming chemicals are compounds that have the capability to form explosive peroxides. Many of these chemicals are commonly-used organic solvents, but when they are allowed to form peroxides, they can become more shock sensitive than TNT. Users of these chemicals should pay close attention to when the chemical was received, when the chemical aws opened, and when the chemical should be tested for peroxide concentration. Some common peroxide forming chemicals are listed in the table below.
Class A Chemicals
Class A chemicals form peroxides without concentration. They should be discarded or evaluated for peroxides within three months of the opening date. If unopened, they should be stored for no longer than 18 months.
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Class A Chemicals |
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Isopropyl ether |
Sodium amide (sodamide) |
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Butadiene |
Tetrafluoroethylene |
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Chlorobutadiene (chloroprene) |
Divinyl acetylene |
|
Potassium amide |
Vinylidene chloride |
|
Potassium metal |
|
Class B Chemicals
Class B chemicals form peroxides upon concentration (distillation/evaportion). They should be discarded or evaluated for peroxides within 12 months of the opening date. If unopened, they should be stored for no more than 18 months.
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Class B Chemicals |
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Acetal |
Dioxane (p-dioxane) |
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Cumene |
Ethylene glycol dimethyl ether (glycol) |
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Cyclohexene |
Furan |
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Cyclooctene |
Methyl acetylene |
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Cyclopentene |
Methyl cyclopentane |
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Diaacetylene |
Methyl isobutyl ketone |
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Dicyclopentadiene |
Tetrahydrofuran |
|
Diethylene glycol dimethyl ether (diglyme) |
Tetrahydronaphthalene |
|
Diethyl ether |
Vinyl ethers |
Class C Chemicals
Class C chemicals are unsaturated monomers that may autopolymerize as a result of peroxide accumulation if inhibitors have been removed or are depelted. Uninhibited materials should not be stored for longer than 24 hours. Open, inhibited materials should be discarded or evaluated within 12 months. If unopened, they should be stored for no longer than 18 months.
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Class C Chemicals |
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Acrylic acid |
Styrene |
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Butadiene |
Vinyl acetate |
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Chlorotrifluoroethylene |
Vinylacetylene |
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Ethyl acrylate |
Vinyl chloride |
|
Methyl methacrylate |
Vinyl pyridine |
*These tables are not all-inclusive and only list common peroxide forming chemicals found at OSU.
Inventory and Purchasing
It is very important when using peroxide forming chemicals to list the date received, the date opened, and the date tested on the bottle. EHS has created labels for this purpose.
Testing
Methods for testing peroxides are listed in the OSU Laboratory Safety Manual. It is important to note that these methods should not be used on peroxide forming chemicals that show signs of shock sensitivity. If the concentration of peroxides is greater than 25 ppm, the chemical is not recommended for distillation or concentration. If the concentration of peroxides is greater than 100 ppm, avoid handling the chemical and contact EHS for disposal using the Chemical Removal Request Form.
Storage and Use
Store peroxide forming chemicals in airtight bottles, away from light and heat. Avoid using containers with loose-fitting lids and round glass stoppers. If crystallization, discoloration, or stratification are present, the chemical may have becoming shock sensitive. Do not use or move the container and contact EHS for disposal.
Documents
Prudent Practices in the Laboratory
For More Information
Sigma Aldrich: Peroxide Forming Solvents