Class 5.2 - Organic Peroxides

Organic peroxides are classified under Class 5.2. These are substances that may, because of their chemical composition, release energy in the form of heat at normal or elevated temperatures. Because of this quality, these substances may have one or more of the following properties:

• be liable to explosion
• burn rapidly
• be sensitive to impact or friction
• react dangerously with other substances
• cause eye damage

Organic peroxides are classified into seven types according to the degree of danger they present. These classifications are designated by the upper-case letters A through G and determine specifics of allowable methods of transporting organic peroxide substances. A table of specific organic peroxides and their packing method is provided under paragraph 2.5.3.2.4. and another table exists in 7.2.6.3 which provides segregation exemptions. Some organic peroxide substances are not found in this table. The final section of the chapter provides information about the classification of these substances, control temperature for safety, and desensitizing these organic peroxide substances with diluents.

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