Organic peroxides and mixtures containing an organic peroxide are used as accelerators, activators, catalysts, cross-linking agents, curing agents, hardeners, initiators and promoters. Organic peroxides and mixtures containing an organic peroxide are often referred to by these terms. This can cause confusion and a serious accident could result if these substances were mixed with organic peroxides. Some materials, such as water, odourless mineral spirits, and some phthalate esters do not react with organic peroxides and are often used to dilute them. The diluted mixtures or formulations are less likely to explode when exposed to heat or physical shock than the undiluted organic peroxide.
Dilution makes the unstable peroxides safer to produce, handle, and use.
Check the supplier labels on chemical product containers. Other hazard symbols may also be present, depending on the particular material. It is wise to treat any unknown material as very hazardous until it is positively identified. The main hazard related to organic peroxides are their fire and explosion hazards. Organic peroxides may also be toxic or corrosive.