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Liquid hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is colourless and odourless. This caustic substance must be handled and stored with caution. Because it is a colourless liquid with no discernible odour, it is difficult to recognise by sight. Depending on the application, suppliers generate different concentrations. H2O2 containers must be labelled to alert others regarding the contents. Many industries rely on safe and compliant hydrogen peroxide storage.
H2O2 Uses and Storage
Hydrogen peroxide is widely acknowledged as one of the safest and most versatile compounds available. Its strong oxidising effects make it a popular disinfectant and bleaching agent. H2O2has been utilised in industries and labs at concentrations up to 98% purity since its discovery by Louis Jacques Thénard in 1818. Hydrogen peroxide is used at much lower concentrations–usually 3% to 9%– in certain medicines and as a bleaching agent for garments and human hair in many modern households. Higher concentrations of H2O2are used as bleaching agents for paper and textiles, common organic compounds and foam rubber production, and rocket engine fuel.
Delivery and Storage
The technologies to deliver 70% hydrogen peroxide to bulk storage facilities allow dilution to 35% or 50% storage concentrations. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies solutions containing more than 8% hydrogen peroxide as oxidisers. Hydrogen peroxide is highly stable under normal conditions. At normal ambient temperatures, rate loss in large containers such as tanks is less than 1% per year; rate loss in compact containers such as drums is less than 2% per year. The greater the rate loss, the greater the ratio of the storage container surface areas to the volume of hydrogen peroxide.
The decomposition of hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen and heat. The water present quickly absorbs the heat released in dilute solutions. Heat elevates the temperature of the solution and accelerates the breakdown rate in more concentrated solutions. During the manufacturing of all grades of hydrogen peroxide, special stabilisers are added to prevent metals and other contaminants from accidentally contaminating the chemical during shipment, storage, and handling. However, because no addition may prevent decomposition if there is enough contamination, the ideal strategy is to avoid contamination by proper handling. As a result, all handling operations must be aimed toward preserving the same level of purity and contamination-freeness as the production process:
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Hydrogen peroxide should only be stored in its original shipping container or appropriately constructed containers made of compatible materials and fully passivated.
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Hydrogen peroxide should not be returned to the original shipping container once removed.
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All containers must be adequately vented and stored away from direct heat sources and flammable objects.
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Adequate ventilation and water supply should be provided to allow for thorough flushing of accidental spills on employees and property.
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Although hydrogen peroxide does not burn, its decomposition releases oxygen, which aids combustion. Large amounts of water are the most effective way to extinguish hydrogen peroxide fires.
Hydrogen peroxide is not a dangerous substance. However, when coupled with organic molecules in high concentrations, it can produce hazardous impact-sensitive compounds. If the H2O2storage container is not adequately ventilated, small amounts of additional catalyst-bearing materials can induce rapid decomposition and an explosive pressure rupture.
In addition to contamination-induced faster decomposition, alkalinity, contact with specific construction materials, and rising temperatures promote hydrogen peroxide decomposition. For every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of decomposition increases around 2.2 times. The temperature rises from 20°C–100°C or 1.5 times every 10°F. The temperature rises from 68°F–212°F. Temperatures do not have much of an influence on hydrogen peroxide until they fall below 0°C. Until -33°C (-27.4°F) and -52.2C (-62°F), respectively, crystals emerge in 35% and 50% solutions.
Hazards
Hydrogen peroxide does not burn. It is, nevertheless, a potent oxidiser, especially when exposed to high temperatures. This implies that it releases oxygen, which accelerates the spread of a fire. When it comes into contact with organic material, it can induce spontaneous combustion or even an explosion. Hydrogen peroxide is hazardous to humans due to its corrosive nature. Severe skin burns and eye impairment result from exposure. It also has the potential to irritate the respiratory system.
Conclusion
Hydrogen peroxide’s acceptance in many industrial applications stands from its ease of use. However, as with any other chemical, the first measure should be to familiarise workers with the safe and proper handling of hydrogen peroxide.
