Loxidant

Loxidant is a term used in some languages as a variant of oxidant (or oxidizer) to describe a substance that accepts electrons in a redox reaction, causing oxidation of another species. In redox chemistry, oxidants are electron acceptors and are reduced in the process.

Oxidants can be broadly categorized as inorganic or organic, and they are often described by their standard reduction potential: higher potentials indicate a stronger ability to oxidize other substances. Common inorganic oxidants include molecular oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate, potassium dichromate, chlorine and hypochlorite species, and ozone. Organic oxidants exist as well, and they are used in specialized synthetic applications. Oxidants can participate in reactions as direct electron acceptors or as radical initiators, depending on the system.

Applications of oxidants span chemical synthesis, disinfection and sterilization, bleaching, and polymerization initiation. They are also employed in environmental remediation to oxidize pollutants and in analytical chemistry for redox titrations and ORP (oxidation-reduction potential) measurements. The choice of oxidant depends on the desired reaction pathway, selectivity, and compatibility with other reagents.

Safety and handling considerations are important: oxidants can be highly reactive and may ignite or violently react with reducing agents, organic materials, or incompatible solvents. They can be corrosive or toxic, and exothermic decomposition is possible under improper storage or heating. Proper storage typically involves separate containment from fuels and reducers, appropriate personal protective equipment, and adherence to relevant regulations and guidelines.

See also: redox reaction, reducing agent, oxidizing agent, oxidation-reduction potential.