Working with organic peroxides in the academic lab

Authors

Patrick Dussault, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

7-31-2018

Document Type

Article

Citation

Department of Chemistry, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Comments

Copyright (c) 2016 Pat Dussault. Revised June 2017 & July 2018.

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The following is a brief introduction to peroxide safety from the viewpoint of a synthetic chemist. Major topics include: classes of organic peroxides; peroxide reactivity; hazard identification and minimization; reaction monitoring; and, hazards associated with auto-oxidation of peroxidizable solvents.

KEYWORDS: peroxide, hydroperoxide, hydroperoxyacetal, ozonide, perester, dihydroperoxide, monoperoxyacetal, active oxygen, peroxide strips, TLC indicator, self-accelerating decomposition, radical, exothermicity, transition metals.

CONTENTS: 1. Literature resources 2. Major classes of peroxides 3. Basis for peroxide reactivity 4. Determining reactivity and minimizing hazards a. Steps to take before an experiment b. Minimizing hazard during reactions c. Monitoring reactions d. Working with isolated peroxides 5. Peroxide toxicity 6. Peroxidizable solvents and reagents 7. Guidelines for handling and transport