Oxidizers & Peroxides
REACH
tert-butyl hydroperoxide
CAS Number
75-91-2
EC Number
200-915-7
Abbreviation
TBHP
What is tert-butyl hydroperoxide?
Tert-butyl hydroperoxide (CAS 75-91-2), commonly abbreviated as TBHP, is an organic peroxide used industrially as a radical source for initiating polymerization and driving oxidation reactions.
Where is tert-butyl hydroperoxide used?
- Plastics: initiates free-radical polymerization and crosslinking
- Acrylics, polyethylene and rubber compounds: production
- Lubricants: oxidation catalyst to modify base oils and synthesize sulfoxide or epoxide intermediates
- Biotechnology and life sciences: reference oxidant in cellular stress assays and enzyme activity studies
- Textile and pulp processing: bleaching agent
- It is used where reproducible oxidative challenge is required for research.
Good to know: Anhydrous and higher-concentration grades are available for specific industrial applications requiring low water content. Handling and storage specifications vary by concentration.
Commercial specifications
- Aqueous solution, most commonly at 70% concentration
- Buyers typically source it in drums or IBC containers for bulk use
Other Names (Synonyms)
Tertiary-butyl hydroperoxide|t-Butylhydroperoxide|Dimethylethyl hydroperoxide|2-Hydroperoxy-2-methylpropane|1,1-Dimethylethyl hydroperoxide|TBHP|Perbutyl H|Cadox TBH
What are the physical properties of tert-butyl hydroperoxide?
Melting Point -8 °C
Boiling Point 35 °C @ Press: 20 Torr
Density 0.8960 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point 85 °F
Appearance colourless liquid (as an aqueous solution) with a sweet smell
Color Clear colorless
Form Liquid
Water Solubility Miscible
Vapor Pressure 62 mmHg at 45 °C
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.403
pH 4.3
Log P 1.230 (est)
How is tert-butyl hydroperoxide classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS08· Health Hazard GHS02· Flammable GHS05· Corrosive GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant GHS09· Environmental Hazard GHS01· Explosive
Hazard Statements
H225 Highly Flammable liquid and vapor
H226 Flammable liquid and vapor
H240 Heating may cause an explosion
H242 Heating may cause a fire
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P233 Keep container tightly closed.
P234 Keep only in original packaging.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to tert-butyl hydroperoxide?
HS Code 29094990
UN Number 3109
ADR Class 5.2
Storage Class 5.2 - Organic peroxides and self-reacting hazardous materials
WGK (Germany) 3