Lithium peroxide
Agent Name
Lithium peroxide
CAS Number
12031-80-0
Formula
Li2-O2
Major Category
Metals
Synonyms
Lithium oxide (Li2O2); Lithium peroxide (Li2(O2)); Dilithium peroxide; [ChemIDplus] UN1472
Category
Peroxides, Metal
Description
White solid; [Hawley] Light beige odorless powder; [MSDSonline]
Sources/Uses
Used as a catalyst (polymerization of styrene to polystyrene), a curing agent for special polymers, and a source of oxygen in sealed spaces (submarines, breathing apparatus, space travel) because it absorbs carbon dioxide and liberates oxygen; [HSDB]
Comments
A strong oxidizer; May ignite or explode in contact with organic materials; [Hawley] Reacts with moisture evolving heat; A skin, eye, and mucous membrane irritant; [HSDB] A strong oxidizer that is explosive; Reacts with water producing heat and lithium hydroxide (corrosive); A skin, eye, and mucous membrane irritant; [CAMEO] May cause fire on contact with combustible material; Reacts exothermically with water; A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Inhalation may cause chemical pneumonitis; [MSDSonline]
Biomedical References
Adverse Effects
Toxic Pneumonitis
Yes
Dermatotoxin
Skin burns
Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent
Other Information
No other related information on this agent was found.