2. Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Benzoyl Peroxide

• CAS Number: 94-36-0

• Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₁₀O₄

• Molecular Weight: 242.23 g/mol

• Synonyms: Dibenzoyl Peroxide, BPO, Benzoic Peroxyanhydride

3. Physical and Chemical Properties

4. Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

4.1. Product Specifications

4.2. Thermal Decomposition Data

5. Applications

5.1. Polymer Industry

• Initiator for Polymerization: BPO is widely used to initiate the polymerization of monomers like styrene, methyl methacrylate, and acrylates in the production of plastics, resins, and adhesives.

5.2. Composite Materials

• Curing Agent: In unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, BPO acts as a curing agent, facilitating cross-linking during the fabrication of fiberglass-reinforced plastics.

5.3. Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics

• Acne Treatment: BPO is a common active ingredient in topical acne medications due to its antibacterial properties.

5.4. Food Industry

• Bleaching Agent: BPO is employed to bleach flour, whey, and cheese products, improving their appearance.

6. Safety and Handling

6.1. Hazards Identification

• Oxidizing Agent: BPO is a strong oxidizer and can pose fire and explosion hazards, especially when dry or in contact with combustible materials.

• Health Hazards: Exposure may cause skin and eye irritation. Inhalation of dust can irritate the respiratory tract.

6.2. Exposure Limits

• NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL): TWA 5 mg/m³

• OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL): TWA 5 mg/m³

• Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH): 1500 mg/m³

6.3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Eye Protection: Safety goggles or face shield

• Skin Protection: Protective gloves and clothing

• Respiratory Protection: Dust mask or respirator in case of inadequate ventilation

6.4. First Aid Measures

• Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

• Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.

• Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Seek medical advice.

• Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.

7. Storage and Stability

• شروط التخزين: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

• Temperature: Maintain storage temperature below 30 °C.

• التعبئة والتغليف: Typically available in 20 kg or 25 kg containers with inner polyethylene bags and outer fiber drums or cartons.

• Stability: BPO is stable under recommended storage conditions but decomposes upon heating, shock, or friction.

8. Regulatory Information

• UN Number: 3104 (for BPO with ≥52% content)

• Hazard Class: 5.2 (Organic Peroxides)

• Packing Group: II

• Regulatory Listings: BPO is listed under various regulatory frameworks, including REACH, TSCA, and OSHA.

9. Environmental Impact

• Ecotoxicity: BPO is harmful to aquatic life with long-lasting effects.

• Degradability: It decomposes into benzoic acid and oxygen, which can contribute to environmental oxygen demand.

10. Conclusion

Benzoyl Peroxide powder is a versatile chemical with applications spanning multiple industries. Its efficacy as a polymerization initiator and curing agent makes it invaluable in manufacturing processes. However, due to its reactive nature, strict adherence to safety guidelines is imperative to ensure safe handling and storage.