Other Names: Oxydol, Perhydrol
Chemical Formula: H₂O₂
CAS Number: 7722-84-1
Hydrogen Peroxide is a very pale blue liquid that appears colorless in solution. Known for its strong oxidizing properties, it is a powerful bleaching agent and disinfectant widely used in industrial, medical, and laboratory applications. Naturally occurring in living cells, hydrogen peroxide plays a role in host defense mechanisms and oxidative biosynthetic reactions.
While it is non-flammable, hydrogen peroxide is unstable and decomposes readily into water and oxygen, releasing heat in the process. As a strong oxidizer, it can cause spontaneous combustion when it comes into contact with organic material.
Industry Uses
Hydrogen Peroxide has a wide range of commercial and industrial applications, including:
- Anti-infective – used as a disinfectant in medical and cleaning applications
- Ripening agent – in food and agricultural industries
- Bleaching agent – for textiles, paper, and hair products
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Vapor Pressure: 1.97 mmHg
- Water Solubility: Miscible
- Flammability: Not flammable
- Odor: Pungent, irritating
Health Risks
Hydrogen Peroxide is a chemical irritant and must be handled with care:
- Eye & mucous membrane irritation from vapors
- Respiratory irritation if inhaled
- Dermal burns from direct skin contact with high concentrations
- Severe eye damage from splashes
- Harmful if swallowed or inhaled
Important: Gas may explode if heated under pressure. Always handle hydrogen peroxide in well-ventilated areas and with proper protective equipment.
Regulatory Exposure Limits
| Limit/Level | Type | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 ppm | TWA (8 hrs) | OSHA |
| 1 ppm | TWA (8 hrs) | NIOSH |
Sources: OSHA, NIOSH
Environmental Impact
Hydrogen Peroxide is verified to be of low concern to the environment as it breaks down quickly into oxygen and water. However, concentrated solutions should still be stored, used, and disposed of responsibly.
Measuring Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen Peroxide can be measured in air or water in parts per million (ppm). Monitoring is essential in workplaces where hydrogen peroxide is produced, stored, or used, to ensure safety compliance.
We offer:
- Portable monitors – for spot checks and field inspections
- Fixed monitoring systems – for continuous workplace safety
- Dissolved hydrogen peroxide test kits – for water treatment and industrial process monitoring
Many of our monitors feature digital communication capabilities for remote monitoring and integration into control systems.
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You can find more information here: https://www.gas-sensing.com/information/hydrogen_peroxide