Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide (HO) is a colorless, odorless liquid that's a common oxidizing and bleaching agent, used in various applications from cleaning and sanitization to bleaching textiles and hair, and even as a rocket fuel ingredient.
Key Properties:
Chemical Formula: HO
Appearance: Colorless liquid, slightly more viscous than water
Solubility: Soluble in water
Oxidizing Agent: Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent, meaning it readily accepts electrons from other substances.
Unstable: Hydrogen peroxide is unstable and decomposes readily to oxygen and water with the release of heat.
Density: Denser than water
Melting Point: -0.43 °C
Boiling Point: 150.2 °C
Common Uses:
- Bleaching: Used to bleach textiles, paper pulp, and hair.
- Sanitizing and Disinfecting: Used as a disinfectant and antiseptic, particularly in cleaning and sanitization applications.
- Antichlor: Used to neutralize chlorine in water treatment.
- Rocket Fuel: Used as a component of rocket fuels.
- Chemical Synthesis: Used in various chemical processes as an oxidant.
- Food and Fish Farming: Used as a bleach and oxidizing agent in food and fish farming.
- Water and Wastewater Treatment: Used as a substitute for chlorine in water and wastewater treatment.
- Medicinal Applications: Used as a mild antiseptic for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, and as a mouth rinse.
- Other Uses: Used in the production of foam rubber and organic chemicals.
Safety Considerations:
- Toxicity: Hydrogen peroxide can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or by contact with the skin or eyes.
- Irritation: Exposure to hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation of the eyes, throat, respiratory airways, and skin.
- Spontaneous Combustion: Although not flammable, hydrogen peroxide can cause spontaneous combustion when it comes in contact with organic material.
- Storage: Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a cool, dark place away from heat and direct sunlight.
- Dilution: Hydrogen peroxide is often used in dilute solutions (e.g., 3% or 6% solutions) for household and medical applications.
