36 Laboratory Safety Manual Environmental Health and Safety Waste Disposal Waste nanomaterials must be treated as chemical waste. Follow EH&S protocols for waste storage and disposal. Organic Peroxides Organic peroxides may react with organic material resulting in fires or explosions. Organic peroxides are highly flammable and extremely sensitive to heat, friction, impact, and light, as well as to strong oxidizing and reducing agents. In addition, organic peroxides may destabilize with age, contamination, or improper storage to become self-reactive. Common laboratory organic peroxides include benzoyl peroxide, butyl peroxide, and lauroyl peroxide. • Mark containers with date received. Dispose of by the expiration date listed on the container label, within one year of purchase or within six months of opening. • Use in a location separated from chemicals and organic materials, such as paper and wood. • Strictly adhere to manufacturer’s use and storage instructions. Refrigeration and/or hydration may be required. • Avoid operations that may concentrate organic peroxides (distillation, extraction, or crystallization). Oxidizers Oxidizers may react with organic materials resulting in fires or explosions. Common laboratory oxidizers include perchloric and nitric acids, sodium, ammonium nitrates, and hydrogen peroxide. • Use away from chemicals and organic materials (paper and wood). • Store in secondary containment away from all other chemicals. • Ensure reactions involving oxidizers and organics are completed prior to placing in sealed containers. Peroxide Forming Chemicals Some chemicals react with oxygen to form peroxides. Impact, heat, or friction can trigger peroxide explosions. Peroxide forming chemicals include ethyl ether, isopropyl ether, potassium metal, and tetrahydrofuran. Refer to the Potentially Explosive Chemicals: Guidelines for Safe Storage and Handling document for a representative list of peroxide forming chemicals.
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