oxidizer

An oxidizer, or oxidant, is a substance that accepts electrons from another species in a redox reaction and is reduced in the process. In chemistry and industry, oxidizers provide the oxidizing counterpart to fuels, often by releasing oxygen or by accepting electrons from the fuel.

In combustion, oxidizers are required to sustain oxidation. Many oxidizers release oxygen upon decomposition or reaction, enabling the rapid burning of fuels under suitable conditions. Some oxidizers, such as chlorine dioxide or nitrates, can participate directly in redox chemistry without needing free oxygen.

Common inorganic oxidizers include molecular oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, ozone, nitrates (such as potassium nitrate), chlorates (such as potassium chlorate), perchlorates (such as ammonium perchlorate), permanganates (such as potassium permanganate), and hypochlorites. Oxidizers exist as gases, liquids, or solids; examples include oxygen and ozone (gaseous), hydrogen peroxide (liquid), and solid oxidizers like ammonium nitrate, potassium perchlorate, and ammonium perchlorate used in propellants.

Applications of oxidizers span metal refining, chemical synthesis, disinfection and water treatment, polymerization initiation, and rocket propulsion, where oxidizers such as liquid oxygen or solid propellant oxidizers couple with fuels.

Hazards and handling: oxidizers do not burn by themselves but support combustion and can react violently with fuels or reducing agents. They may be corrosive or reactive. Proper storage and handling require segregation from organic materials, acids, reducing agents, and heat sources; use of compatible containers, adequate ventilation, and adherence to safety regulations and material compatibility guidelines.