UMass Boston

Handling and Care of Peroxide-Forming and Nitro Compounds

*WARNING: Under proper conditions, these chemicals will form explosive peroxides which can be detonated by shock or heat.

Storage Precautions

  • Store in airtight containers in a dark, cool, dry place.
  • Label containers with receiving, opening and disposal dates.
  • Dispose of peroxide forming chemicals before expected date of first peroxide formation in accordance with local regulations.
  • Test for the presence of peroxides periodically.
  • Acetaldehyde
  • Acrylaldehyde
  • Crotonaldehyde
  • Cyclohexane
  • Ethyl Ether
  • Isopropyl Ether
  • p-Dioxane
  • Potassium
  • Tetrahydrofuran

* Potassium peroxide often exists in the crust around a piece of Potassium. When cut with a knife the peroxide rapidly oxidizes the residual kerosene resulting in an explosion.