Perbenzoic acid

Chemical properties

Volatile solid with a pungent odor; sublimes;mp 41–43°C (105.8–109°F); bp 100–105°C(212–221°F) at 15 torr (partially decomposes); slightly soluble in water but mixesreadily with most organic solvents.

The Uses of Perbenzoic acid

Perbenzoic acid is used to convert ethylenic compounds into oxides; in analysis of unsatd compounds, to determine the number of double bonds.

The Uses of Perbenzoic acid

Peroxybenzoic acid is used in organic analyses to measure the degree of unsaturation,and in making epoxides.

Synthesis Reference(s)

Tetrahedron, 23, p. 3327, 1967 DOI: 10.1016/S0040-4020(01)92300-2

Health Hazard

The toxicity of peroxybenzoic acid is verylow on animals. In humans it is almostnontoxic. Peroxybenzoic acid caused skintumor in mice on prolonged contact (NIOSH1986). Its tumorigenic action was lower thanthat of peroxyacetic acid. Its carcinogenicityin humans is unknown.

Fire Hazard

The presence of the peroxide functional group renders its strong oxidizing properties similar to those of other peroxy compounds. However, this compound is not hazardous like peroxyacetic or peroxyformic acids. It is not shock sensitive. Violent decomposition may occur only at high temperatures and/or in conjunction with certain organic contaminants that are easily oxidizable. Although there is no report of its explosion, general safety measures for handling peroxy compounds should be followed.

Safety Profile

Moderately irritating to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes by ingestion and inhalation. Questionable carcinogen with experimental tumorigenic data by skin contact. A dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat, flame, or reducing materials. A powerful oxid

Purification Methods

Crystallise the peracid from *benzene or pet ether. It sublimes readily and is steam volatile. It is soluble in CHCl3, CCl4 and Et2O. [Braun Org Synth Coll Vol I 431 1941.] EXPLOSIVE.