Cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is an organic compound that belongs to the family of organic peroxides. It is a colorless liquid with a sharp, pungent odor and is highly reactive. CHP is an important industrial chemical that is primarily used in the production of phenol and acetone through the cumene process.
What is Cumene Hydroperoxide?
The cumene process is a method for producing phenol and acetone from benzene and propylene. In this process, cumene is oxidized to form CHP, which is then hydrolyzed to form phenol and acetone. CHP is also used as a polymerization initiator and as a cross-linking agent for plastics and elastomers.
Although CHP is an important industrial chemical, it is also highly reactive and can pose a significant safety risk. It is a Class 1B flammable liquid and is classified as an oxidizing agent. CHP can react violently with other substances, such as acids, reducing agents, and metals, and can cause fires, explosions, and toxic gas releases.
One of the major safety concerns with CHP is the potential for it to undergo thermal decomposition, which can lead to a boil-over. A boil-over is a violent and uncontrolled release of a large amount of hot liquid and vapor, which can cause severe damage to equipment and personnel.
To prevent boil-overs, CHP is stored and handled under carefully controlled conditions. It is typically stored in stainless steel or lined tanks, which are equipped with cooling jackets and pressure relief devices. CHP should be kept away from sources of heat and ignition, and it should be handled by trained personnel who are familiar with the hazards and safety precautions associated with this chemical.
In addition to the safety risks associated with CHP, it is also a hazardous air pollutant and can cause environmental damage. As a result, its production and use are strictly regulated by government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States.
Overall, CHP is an important industrial chemical that plays a critical role in the production of phenol and acetone. However, it is also a highly reactive and hazardous substance that requires careful handling and storage to prevent safety incidents and environmental damage.
Is Cumene hydroperoxide powder available?
No, but Cumene Hydroperoxide (CHP) is not typically used in powder form. CHP is usually produced and transported in a liquid form. It is a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic odor.
Cumene Hydroperoxide Oxidative Stress
Cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is a powerful oxidant that can cause oxidative stress in living organisms. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the ability of the body to detoxify them. ROS are highly reactive molecules that can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids, leading to cell death and tissue damage.
CHP induces oxidative stress by generating ROS, such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, and hydroxyl radical, in living cells. These ROS can react with cellular components and disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to various diseases and conditions such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and aging.
Studies have shown that CHP-induced oxidative stress can cause DNA damage and mutations, alter gene expression, impair mitochondrial function, and activate various signaling pathways involved in inflammation and cell death. In addition, CHP can also deplete the cellular antioxidant defenses, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase, making the cells more vulnerable to oxidative damage.
The toxic effects of CHP on living organisms have been extensively studied, and several mechanisms of toxicity have been proposed. CHP is known to cause lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and DNA damage, leading to cell death and tissue injury. It has also been shown to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and necrosis (uncontrolled cell death) in various cell types.
Cumene Hydroperoxide Price
he price of cumene hydroperoxide can vary depending on several factors, such as the supplier, the quantity purchased, and the purity of the product. Generally, cumene hydroperoxide is more expensive than other organic peroxides due to its high reactivity and the difficulty in handling it safely.
As of May 2023, the price of cumene hydroperoxide ranges from approximately $4.50 to $5.50 per kilogram for a technical grade product, while a high-purity grade can cost upwards of $8 per kilogram. The price may also vary depending on the market conditions and availability of the product.
It is important to note that cumene hydroperoxide is a hazardous material and should be handled with extreme care. The price of safety equipment, such as personal protective gear and storage containers, should also be considered when purchasing cumene hydroperoxide.
Cumene Hydroperoxide SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
Here is a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Cumene hydroperoxide:
SECTION 1: IDENTIFICATION Product Name: Cumene hydroperoxide Chemical Formula: C9H12O2 Synonyms: CHP CAS No: 80-15-9 UN No: 3107
SECTION 2: HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION GHS Classification:
- Oxidizing liquids, Category 1
- Acute toxicity, Category 4
- Skin corrosion, Category 1C
- Eye damage, Category 1
Hazards Description:
- Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- May be fatal if swallowed or inhaled
- Causes respiratory irritation
- May intensify fire; oxidizer
- May cause an allergic skin reaction
- May cause genetic defects
- May cause cancer
Cumene Hydroperoxide Uses
Cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is a colorless organic compound that is widely used in industry. Some common uses of CHP are:
- Production of phenol and acetone: CHP is an important intermediate in the production of phenol and acetone, which are used in the manufacture of various products such as plastics, resins, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals.
- Polymerization initiator: CHP is used as a polymerization initiator in the production of various polymers, including polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyethylene.
- Chemical synthesis: CHP is also used in various chemical reactions as an oxidizing agent, a radical initiator, or a source of hydroperoxides.
- Bleaching agent: CHP can be used as a bleaching agent for textiles, pulp, and paper.
- Laboratory reagent: CHP is used as a reagent in laboratory experiments and analytical procedures.
Cumene Hydroperoxide Hazards
Cumene hydroperoxide can pose a number of hazards, both as a liquid and as a powder. Some of the hazards associated with cumene hydroperoxide include:
- Fire and explosion hazard: Cumene hydroperoxide is a strong oxidizing agent and can cause fires and explosions if it comes into contact with combustible materials or if it is subjected to high temperatures or pressures.
- Health hazard: Cumene hydroperoxide can be harmful if it is ingested, inhaled or comes into contact with skin or eyes. It can cause severe irritation, burns, and other health issues.
- Environmental hazard: Cumene hydroperoxide is toxic to aquatic life and can cause harm to the environment if it is released into waterways or soil.
- Reactivity hazard: Cumene hydroperoxide is a reactive chemical and can react with other chemicals to produce hazardous substances.
It is important to handle cumene hydroperoxide with care and follow appropriate safety measures to prevent any accidents or exposure to the hazards. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn when handling cumene hydroperoxide and it should be stored in a secure location away from other chemicals and heat sources. A material safety data sheet (MSDS) should be available and consulted for information on safe handling, storage, and disposal of cumene hydroperoxide.
Cumene Hydroperoxide Mechanism
Cumene hydroperoxide is an organic peroxide with the chemical formula C9H12O2. It is primarily used in the production of phenol and acetone through the cumene process. Cumene hydroperoxide is highly reactive due to the presence of a weak O-O bond in its molecular structure, and this reactivity is what makes it useful in industrial processes.
The mechanism of cumene hydroperoxide involves the decomposition of the O-O bond to form free radicals. In the presence of certain catalysts or initiators, the free radicals can initiate a chain reaction that leads to the oxidation of other compounds. The free radicals can also combine with each other to form peroxides or other products.
Cumene hydroperoxide is an unstable compound and can decompose violently under certain conditions. It can react with various organic and inorganic compounds, including metals, acids, and bases. This reactivity can lead to hazards such as fire, explosion, and toxicity.
The mechanism of cumene hydroperoxide is complex and highly dependent on the specific reaction conditions. It is important to handle this compound with caution and follow proper safety procedures to prevent accidents and exposure to hazardous materials.
FAQs About Cumene Hydroperoxide
Is Cumene hydroperoxide VOC?
Yes, cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is considered a volatile organic compound (VOC) due to its relatively high vapor pressure and ability to contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone.