Peroxyacetic acid is a clear, colorless liquid, that at higher concentrations, is increasingly corrosive and has oxidative properties. It is a strong pungent odor as PAA concentrations increase.
Peroxyacetic Acid is available commercially in formulations at less than 1% PAA and greater than 30% peroxyacetic acid concentrate. It is in concentrations exceeding 5% hydrogen peroxide and greater than 1% peroxyacetic acid that are considered both an Oxidizer and a Corrosive product; please read below for details concerning safety in handling this product.
Is peroxyacetic acid explosive?
With the formulations that BioSafe Systems provides, peroxyacetic acid on its own and when packaged correctly using factory approved and original packaging, is not explosive. However, higher concentrations are strong oxidizers and when combined with material that are incompatible with PAA such as transitional metals, organic components such as paper or cardboard or other incompatible chemicals can help contribute to a reactive condition. See BioSafe Systems incompatible material reference sheet. Proper packaging, storage and transfer procedures will mitigate the majority of oxidative reaction issues.
Is peroxyacetic acid flammable?
No it is not
How is peroxyacetic acid when compared to chlorine in terms of product safety?
Chlorine comes in many different forms, but they are all toxic. Chlorine gas is the most dangerous form. Ultimately chlorinate products want to convert to a gaseous state. Since chlorine gas is heavier than air, it can accumulate near the ground making it difficult for people to escape a spill.
Peroxyacetic acid is a liquid within a liquid. It does not off gas and the greater the concentration the greater the concern. However, unlike chlorine any danger from a spill or reaction is easily mitigated by simply diluting with water.
What materials are incompatible with peroxyacetic acid products?|
Avoid contacting peroxyacetic products with strong alkalis, oxidizable organics, heavy metals, leather, paper, and wood. Avoid yellow and soft metals (copper, brass, bronze, zinc, aluminum) and mild steel. Please reference the BioSafe Systems materials compatibility information sheet.
What containers should be used to store peroxyacetic acid provided by BioSafe Systems?
Never store in container that are not supplied by BioSafe Systems
What kind of personal protective equipment do I need to wear when handling peroxyacetic acid products?
Chemically resistant gloves such as neoprene or vinyl. Goggles, safety glasses or face shield will protect from accidental splashing. Most common accidents or problems are eye protection issues. Eye protection is of paramount importance. Not all uses and applications are approved in all states/provinces. Always consult a product’s label before use.