Organic peroxides are a class of compoundsthat contain an oxygen-oxygen bond and are used in various industrial processes
due to their ability to initiate polymerization.However,they also pose
significant safety concerns due to their reactive nature.Here are some key
safety precautions when handling organic peroxides:
• Thermal Stability:Organic peroxides arethermally sensitive and can decompose when exposed to certain temperatures.Some
must be stored under refrigerated conditions to preserve their usefulness and
quality and for safety reasons.
• Storage Conditions:They should be storedin approved containers in well-ventilated areas,away from any sources of heat
or flame and incompatible chemicals,and kept at or below the maximum
recommended storage temperature for the product.
• Compatibility:Organic peroxides shouldnot come into contact with materials that could cause contamination,as this can
lead to rapid decomposition.Metals such as cobalt,iron,and copper can be
particularly troublesome,so equipment handling organic peroxides should be made
of materials like 316 stainless steel.
• Oxidizing Properties:While most organicperoxides are not strong oxidizers,peroxy acids do show strong oxidizing
properties,and they are not compatible with organic peroxides.
• Hazard Identification andClassification:Different hazard classification systems exist for organic
peroxide formulations,including transportation,storage,and handling.
• Transportation:The transportation oforganic peroxide formulations is strictly regulated.They are tested and
classified based on their hazard,from most hazardous to least hazardous,and
must be transported according to the regulations set by the United Nations and
other international bodies.
• Fire Protection:Storage facilities shouldbe equipped with fire control systems,such as automatic sprinklers,and should
be designed to contain any fires that may originate from within the organic
peroxides due to decomposition or spread from adjacent areas.
• Personal Protective Equipment(PPE):Whenhandling organic peroxides,it is essential to use appropriate PPE,including
safety goggles and chemical-resistant gloves.Respiratory protection may also be
necessary depending on the specific formulation.
• Spill Clean Up:In the event of a spill,itis crucial to know the manufacturer's recommended actions for the specific
formulation used.Immediate action may be required to avoid decomposition or
fire.Absorbents with high surface areas can catalyze decomposition,so special
care must be taken.
• Disposal:Organic peroxide formulationsshould be disposed of as hazardous materials and not discharged to sanitary
sewers or discarded in the trash.
• Training and Education:It is important toeducate and train employees on the safe handling,storage,and emergency response
related to organic peroxides to increase awareness and preparedness.
• Quality Control:To preserve theassay(active oxygen content),organic peroxides should be stored at proper
temperatures and rotated to ensure minimal time in storage.Doubts about the
quality due to storage conditions should be addressed with the supplier for
testing before use.
These safety measures are designed tomitigate the risks associated with the handling and storage of organic
peroxides,ensuring the safety of workers and the integrity of the chemical
processes they are involved in.