Strontium peroxide

Chemical properties

white to off-white powder

Chemical properties

Strontium peroxide is a lightcolored solid of good thermal stability. Commercial strontium peroxide contains about 85% SrO2 and 10% active oxygen.

The Uses of Strontium peroxide

Strontium Peroxide is an oxidizing agent that is used for bleaching. It has also been used in some pyrotechnic displays to provide a vivid-red color.

The Uses of Strontium peroxide

Strontium peroxide or strontium dioxide (SrO2) can cause fires or explode when heated and in contact with organic substances. It is used as both a reducing agent and an oxidizing agent.

The Uses of Strontium peroxide

The only substantial application for this compound is in pyrotechnics. Strontium peroxide produces a red color in flames.

Preparation

Like the other alkaline earth peroxides, it can be prepared by reaction of the nitrate and sodium peroxide in a cold solution:
Sr(NO3)2＋ Na2O2＋xH2O
SrO2·xH2O＋2NaNO3
The hydrated form is usually the octahydrate. If the anhydrate is desired, the hydrated peroxide is dried and then sintered at 350°C for 10 min or less:
SrO2·xH2O＋ heat→SrO＋SrO2＋H2O

General Description

A white powder. Insoluble in water and slowly decomposed by water. Noncombustible, but accelerates the burning of combustible material.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water and slowly decomposed by water.

Reactivity Profile

Strontium peroxide may explode from friction, heat or contamination. Accelerates burning when involved in a fire. May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). If the combustible material is finely divided the mixture may be explosive.

Health Hazard

TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns or death. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases. Toxic fumes or dust may accumulate in confined areas (basement, tanks, hopper/tank cars, etc.). Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

May explode from friction, heat or contamination. These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire. May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Some will react explosively with hydrocarbons (fuels). Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.

Flammability and Explosibility

Not classified

Safety Profile

A powerful oxidizer. A skin, eye, and mucous membrane irritant. Mixtures with organic materials readily ignite with friction or on contact with moisture. See also PEROXIDES and STRONTIUM COMPOUNDS.