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Peroxide Forming Chemicals

Peroxide forming chemicals (PFC) are materials that may form potentially explosive organic peroxides, these are not classified under GHS, but are of significant concern. Many of these chemicals are common solvents and care must be taken for solutions containing them. A common practice is the addition of stabilizers (e.g. hydroquinone and BHT) that inhibit the chain reaction of peroxide formation.

The Chemical Hygiene Plan covers more information about the safe handling of peroxide formers on pages 24 - 27.

When potentially explosive peroxides formed in chemicals which are kept beyond their expiration date. A special team must remotely open every expired peroxide former individually. This "High Hazard Team" work is dangerous and costly.

Do Not handle PFC containers if :

  • greater than two years past the expiration date
  • is a Class 1 over 18 months
  • date of the container is unknown
  • If crystallization is present in or on the exterior of a container
  • Secure container and contact the EH&S for disposal 
  • Unopened containers must be disposed of within 18 months of receipt or expirations
  • Opened containers disposed of within 12 months of opening if uninhibited.
  • PFC Class 1 (more dangerous) : are tested every 3 months and are disposed of as soon as peroxide concentrations are detected or with in 12 months. 
  • PFC Class 2 to 4: if inhibited must be tested every 3 months and disposed of as soon as peroxide concentration are detected.
  • Labeling: 
    • must have manufacture expiration or date received 
    • must have date opened
    • must have concentration of last test
    • Type "Peroxide Former" or "PFC" in comments section on WASTe Tag

There is a $100 (minimum) recharge for each PFC that is disposed of beyond the expiration date, exceeding 20 ppm, or unlabeled.

To turn in expired PFC provide a P39 Recharge From at pick up with your containers.

If your container is:

  • Unopened  over 18 months of receipt or expiration
  • Class 2 to 4 beyond expiration date and exceeding 20ppm
  • Unlabeled

There is a $100 (minimum) recharge for each PFC that is disposed of beyond the expiration date, exceeding 20 ppm, or for containers not labeled. To turn in expired PFC provide a P39 Recharge From at pick up with your containers.

If you container is 

  • greater than two years past the expiration date
  • a Class 1 over 18 months
  • date of the container is unknown
  • If crystallization is present in or on the exterior of a container

If a container is identified as high-risk, it may require specialized handling by a High Hazmat team. 

  • Secured Access: The area where the item is stored will be secured and restricted until the Hazmat team arrives.
  • Remote Stabilization: Materials may need to be remotely opened or stabilized to ensure safety.
  • Cost: The minimum cost for this service is $8,000, depending on the complexity and risk level of the operation.
  • Purchase minimal quantities
  • Stored in airtight containers in a dark, cool, and dry place
  • Seal tightly to avoid evaporation
  • Label with the date received and the date opened
  • Dispose of prior to expiration,  1 year from opening, or with peroxides formation < 20 ppm.
  • Avoid evaporation or distillation (distillation defeats the stabilizer added to the solvent)
  • Inspect regularly your container for exterior contamination or crystallization
  • Never return unused quantities back to original container
  • Clean spills immediately
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