Peroxide forming chemicals

Some chemicals, e.g. diethyl ether, tetrahydrofuran and 1,4-dioxane, can form explosive peroxides. Peroxide forming chemicals ar labelled with hazard statement EUH019.

The peroxides may form if the chemicals are subjected to light, heat or oxygen. Peroxide forming chemicals shall be kept away from light and heat. Opened bottles should not be kept for more than one year. Label bottles with date upon arrival and again when bottles are opened the first time.

Peroxidation can be detected using commercial test strips. If the content is cloudy, discoloured or crystallised the bottle shall not be opened, touched or moved because of risk for explosion. Contact the Chemical Coordinator at the Unit for Environment and Physical Work Environment for advise on handling.

Information about Diethyl Ether from Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (Swedish)