Be aware of chemical incompatibilities before mixing to avoid explosive or uncontrollable reactions, generation of toxic gases, etc. Peroxides are a group of compounds that contain an oxygen-oxygen bond. As a class, organic peroxides are the most explosive substances that are normally found in the laboratory. Peroxides are sensitive to light, heat, and friction, as well as to strong oxidizing and reducing agents. Explosions involving peroxides are unpredictable and violent.
Store peroxides away from sources of light, heat, friction, and mechanical disturbance.
A solid peroxide can often be stored more safely if it is dissolved in a nonperoxidizable inert solvent such as an aliphatic hydrocarbon. Do not allow solutions of peroxides to evaporate, because the concentration of peroxide may reach a dangerous level. Do not store peroxides or solutions of peroxides in glass bottles with ground glass or screw caps. The friction caused by opening the bottle can initiate an explosion. Polyethylene bottles with screw caps may be used.