1. Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Diethyl ether
Isopropyl alcohol
THF

2. Ether Safety overview Ether can form peroxides when exposed to air
Peroxides are shock-sensitive explosion hazards
To minimize risks:
Purchase what will be used within the month
Purchase Ethyl Ether that contains peroxide inhibitors such as BHT or ethanol
Store away from heat and light
Test for peroxide formation monthly after expiration
Less than 80 ppm peroxides
Solution is okay to use
Call the Chemical Waste Program for packaging and removal
80 ppm to 400 ppm
Greater than 400 ppm
Call the Chemical Waste Program, who will contact the Bomb Squad

3. Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Many solvents can form shock-sensitive peroxides over time
Diethyl ether
Isopropyl alcohol
THF
Friction, shock, or concentration can cause an explosion
Graduate student at UC-Irvine sustained cuts from exploding glassware while concentrating diethyl ether
Explosion was partially contained in water bath, residue visible on rotovap glassware
“Lesson Learned” from University of California Irvine 2006 <

4. Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Ordering and Storage
Only order the amount needed for one month
Label when first received and when first opened
Store away from light, ignition sources, and oxidizers
Test for peroxides every month after listed expiration date has passed
Department of Environmental Health and Safety Hazardous Chemical Waste Management Guidebook, Section 5 “Waste Requiring Special Processing” <

5. Peroxide Forming Chemicals
Testing for Peroxides
Call DEHS if
Crystals are present in or around the container
Container has a metal screw cap
Container has been stored for more than two years
If the above are not present, test with peroxide test strips
Less than 80 ppm is okay
Greater than 80 ppm, call DEHS for disposal