Lab Safety
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
What are the different classes of organic peroxides?
Class 1-describes those formulations which are capable of deflagration, but not
detonation
Class 2- describes those formulations that burn very rapidly and that present a severe
reactivity hazard.
Class 3-describes those formulations that burn rapidly and that present a moderate
reactivity hazard.
Class 4- describes those formulations that burn in the same manner as ordinary
combustibles and that present a minimal reactivity hazard
Class 5-describes those formulations that 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 December 2, 2010
