Peròxid

Peròxid, in chemistry, denotes a class of compounds characterized by a peroxide functional group, an O–O bond. Broadly, peroxides are divided into organic peroxides, in which the O–O linkage is bonded to carbon-based groups, and inorganic peroxides, which are salts or oxides containing the peroxide anion O2^2−. The simplest example is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Organic peroxides include tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) and dialkyl peroxides, which are common radical initiators in polymerization. Inorganic peroxides include sodium peroxide (Na2O2), calcium peroxide (CaO2), and barium peroxide (BaO2). They release oxygen upon decomposition or reaction, enabling bleaching, disinfection, or oxidation processes.

Peròxids are produced by various methods. Hydrogen peroxide is produced by the anthraquinone process and used for bleaching, disinfection, and chemical synthesis. Inorganic peroxides can be prepared by direct reactions of alkali or alkaline earth metals with oxygen, or by treatment of oxides with hydrogen peroxide. Organic peroxides are typically prepared by hydroperoxidation or peracylation of organic substrates. They are used in industry as oxidizers, bleaching agents, and initiators for polymerization; hydrogen peroxide is also used as a disinfectant and in chemical synthesis. Some peroxides have historical uses as rocket oxidizers.

Safety and handling: Peroxides can be highly reactive and may decompose violently if concentrated, heated, or contaminated. Organic peroxides are often shock‑sensitive and must be stored away from fuels, reducing agents, and heat. Handling requires appropriate containment, ventilation, and protective equipment, in line with safety regulations.