5.5 Oxidizers

GHS symbol showing a ball with flames coming from the top.

Characteristics

Oxidizers are a fire hazard. They will readily decompose under certain conditions to yield oxygen or react to promote or initiate the combustion of flammable or combustible materials. 

Laboratory Chemicals

Solids

  • ammonium nitrate

  • calcium nitrate 

  • potassium chlorate

  • potassium nitrate

  • sodium dichromate 

  • sodium nitrate

Liquids

  • bromine 

  • chromic acid 

  • hydrogen peroxide

  • nitric acid 

  • perchloric acid 

  • sulfuric acid 

Gases

  • chlorine

  • fluorine 

  • nitrogen dioxide 

  • oxygen

  • ozone 

Non-Laboratory Chemicals

Solids

  • fertilizers (e.g., ammonium nitrate)

  • pool chemicals (e.g., bromine tablets)

Liquids

  • bleaching agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite)

Gases

  • oxygen

  • chlorine 

Storage Precautions for Oxidizers

  • Segregate oxidizers from flammable and combustible materials (paper, wood). See Flammables and Combustibles (Section 5.1).

  • Segregate oxidizers from reducing agents (zinc, alkaline metals, formic acid). 

  • Segregate inorganic oxidizers from organic peroxides. 

  • Take care not to contaminate oxidizers. Some oxidizers, such as perchloric acid, can become explosive mixtures if contaminated with trace amounts of organic materials or metals. See Explosive and Potentially Explosive Chemicals (Section 5.10).

  • Store in a cool, dry place. Do not store under sink.

  • Remember that perchloric acid, nitric acid, and hydrogen peroxide are oxidizers and must not be stored on wooden shelves or in cardboard boxes.