Hydrogen peroxide - H2O2
This page presents information about hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or perhydroxic acid or oxygenated water, appropriate detection means - hydrogen peroxide detector - and proper respiratory protective equipment - self-contained breathing apparatus and supplied air respirator.
Hydrogen peroxide properties (H2O2)
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) – also known as oxygenated water – is a gas widely used as a bleaching agent in paper plants and the textile industry. Because of its disinfectant properties, this gas is used in laboratories to sterilize, in the food industry to disinfect packaging and in the pharmaceutical industry to sanitize contact lens or to produce bactericidal products.
| CAS | TWA (8 hours) | STEL (15 minutes) | LSE | IP | Density / Air | Filter / SCBA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7722-84-1 | 1 ppm | - | - | 10.54 eV | 1.17 | SCBA |
Hydrogen peroxide effects on health
Hydrogen peroxide is most commonly known under its liquid state - oxygenated water. Whether liquid or gaseous, this substance is colorless and odorless. H2O2 is corrosive and harmful by inhalation (R20) or if swallowed (R22) and might cause severe burns (R35). Although this gas features no explosive limits, heating may cause an explosion (R5) and its contact with combustible material may cause fire (R8).
Highly concentrated solutions can cause severe damage to the skin and eyes and important irritation to breathing and digestive systems. Repeated exposure lead to abnormal skin coloration and hair bleaching. To date, no relation with potential carcinogenic effects or reproductive function damage has been found.
