Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a powerful, versatile oxidising agent used across cleaning, disinfection, water treatment and chemical synthesis. It is sold in several concentrations and grades, and choosing the right one matters for both performance and safety. This guide explains the main hydrogen peroxide grades and where each is used.
How hydrogen peroxide works
Hydrogen peroxide is a clear liquid that breaks down into water and oxygen, leaving no persistent residue. That clean breakdown is why it is favoured as a more environmentally friendly oxidiser and bleaching agent compared with many chlorine-based alternatives.
Common concentrations
- Hydrogen Peroxide 35% — a versatile industrial strength for bleaching, cleaning, disinfection and laboratory oxidation.
- Hydrogen Peroxide 35% Food Grade — high-purity, suitable for food-contact and aseptic packaging applications.
- Hydrogen Peroxide 50% — a higher-strength grade for demanding industrial bleaching and water/wastewater treatment.
Food grade vs technical grade
The percentage tells you the concentration; the grade tells you the purity and permitted impurities. Food-grade hydrogen peroxide is produced and certified for applications where it may contact food, while technical and industrial grades are intended for manufacturing, cleaning and treatment processes. Always match the grade to your regulatory requirements.
Typical applications
- Textile, pulp and paper bleaching
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Disinfection and sterilisation
- Chemical synthesis and oxidation
Handling and storage
Concentrated hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidiser and can be corrosive. Store it cool, upright and away from combustibles and reducing agents, in vented original containers. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is provided on request.
Buy hydrogen peroxide from Ozon Chemical
Ozon Chemical supplies hydrogen peroxide and a full range of reagents and inorganics as an EU-registered, REACH-compliant supplier, with COA/SDS on request and worldwide shipping.
