hydroperoksidet

Hydroperoxides are a class of chemical compounds that contain the functional group R−O−O−H, where R is any organic group. They are organic molecules with a peroxide group (-O-O-) bonded to at least one carbon atom. The oxygen-oxygen single bond is relatively weak, making hydroperoxides reactive and prone to decomposition.

The simplest hydroperoxide is hydrogen hydroperoxide, H−O−O−H, commonly known as hydrogen peroxide. Organic hydroperoxides are formed through various chemical processes, including the oxidation of hydrocarbons. They can occur naturally, for instance, in the autoxidation of lipids in biological systems, and are also produced industrially for use in chemical synthesis.

Due to the weak O-O bond, hydroperoxides are strong oxidizing agents. This reactivity makes them useful as initiators in polymerization reactions, as bleaching agents, and as disinfectants. However, their instability also poses safety concerns. Hydroperoxides can be sensitive to heat, shock, and friction, and some can decompose explosively. Proper handling and storage procedures are essential to mitigate these risks. Common examples of organic hydroperoxides include tert-butyl hydroperoxide and cumene hydroperoxide, which are important intermediates in various industrial processes.