Hydrogen peroxide is a clear and colorless liquid. It has a slightly pungent odor. Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile and environmentally friendly chemical with a wide variety of applications. It is commercially available as aqueous solution in various concentrations and grades.

Parameter	Units
Content	% by wt.	35	50
Content	g H2O2 100%/kg	350	500
Content	g H2O2 100%/l1)	396	598
Content	Mol %	22.2	34.6
Active oxygen content	% by wt.	16.5	23.5
Density at 20 °C	g/cm³	1.132	1.196
Freezing point2)	°C	-33	-52
Boiling point (normal pressure)3)	°C	108	114
Total vapor pressure (30 °C)	10-3; MPa	3.200	2.400
Total vapor pressure (30 °C)	Torr	24	18
H2O2 partial vapor pressure (30 °C)	103 MPa	0.040	0.080
H2O2 partial vapor pressure (30 °C)	Torr	0.3	0.6

 

1)     At 20 °C

2)     H²O² solutions have a strong tendency to super-cooling

3)    Extrapolated values because normally concentration and boiling point are continuously reduced through decomposition during heating

 

Hydrogen peroxide solutions with a content of 8 percent by weight and above are dangerous substances. They must be labeled and handled correspondingly.

 

§  Harmful if swallowed

§  Risk of serious damage to eyes

§  Irritating to respiratory system and skin

§  Corrosive, oxidizing

§  Contact with combustible material may cause fire

§  Causes burns

§  Heating may cause an explosion

§  Contact with combustible material may cause fire

 

The property of hydrogen peroxide to decompose exothermally in the presence of certain catalytically acting impurities, with the formation of oxygen gas and water is very important for handling during storage as well as during chemical reaction. Decomposition is indicated by the development of gas and—with only slight removal of heat—by rise in temperature.

The stability of hydrogen peroxide solutions is influenced primarily by the temperature, the pH value, and above all by the presence of impurities with a decomposing effect.

The rate of decomposition is promoted by an increase in temperature, as well as a higher pH value. For optimum stability, the pH range of pure H²O² is below 4.5. Above pH 5, the decomposition increases sharply. Therefore, commercial solutions are generally adjusted to a pH value below 5.

The shelf life of hydrogen peroxide is negatively affected by impurities of every type even when some of these impurities are present in very low concentrations. The decomposition can be induced homogeneously by dissolved ions with a catalytic effect. Heavy metals like iron, copper, manganese, nickel, and chromium are especially effective here. Hydrogen peroxide is also decomposed through the effect of light as well as by certain enzymes (catalase).

As a result of the stabilizers, which are usually added to our commercial grades, our hydrogen peroxide is protected against unavoidable impact during handling and has an excellent shelf life. With normal handling and cool storage, and when the necessary precautionary measures are observed, the losses of hydrogen peroxide are very slight even during extended periods (years) of storage.

Safety recommendations

Appropriate protective measures must be taken to avoid any hazards when handling hydrogen peroxide. In order to avoid contact between hydrogen peroxide and the skin or the mucous membranes, protective gloves, closely fitting protective goggles, and if necessary protective suits made of rubber or suitable plastics (e.g. Orlon, nylon, PVC, neoprene, or polyethylene) must be worn. H²O² vapors or mist must not be inhaled. The TLV value in the work area must not be exceeded. If necessary, suitable respiratory equipment must also be worn. Protect H²O² from heat and any contamination. Especially, contamination with heavy metals will catalyze the decomposition of H²O². H²O² solutions are nonflammable but can ignite flammable materials. H²O² should be stored in the original containers or in specially designed tanks.

 

Our safety guidelines are summarized as follows:

 

§  Wear safety goggles and gloves. If there is a splashing risk, wear a face shield, plastic apron and boots.

§  Have an eye bath and safety showers available. Ensure there is adequate ventilation where peroxide vapors may occur.

§  Have water hoses available for fire fighting. Wash spilled peroxide away from handling and storage areas with plenty of water.

§  Store in original container in a cool place. Keep containers upright. Ensure vents remain effective.

§  Keep storage area free of combustible materials. Use this area for peroxide storage only.

§  Use clean vessels and equipment of compatible materials. Empty all utensils and drain equipment after use. Wash out with water.

§  Prevent any contamination of peroxide. Do not return unused product to original container. Dilute with plenty of water and flush to drain.

§  Avoid all contacts with combustible material, e.g. organic material or oxidizable products.

§  Wash contaminated materials at once. On no account allow them to dry out before rinsing (e.g. clothing).

 

Use only vessels or containers fitted with a safety vent in operable condition. Do not confine peroxide in any enclosed spaces (e.g. between closed valves).