Organic peroxides are highly reactive chemicals used in various industrial processes such as polymer synthesis, rubber manufacturing, and chemical processing. However, their instability and potential for explosive decomposition make them subject to strict safety regulations and handling guidelines. Common types of organic peroxide include Diacyl peroxides, Ketone peroxides, Peroxyesters, Percarbonates, Dialkyl peroxides, Hydro-peroxides, and others.
Organic peroxides find widespread use in plastics manufacturing, elastomers, and polymers, serving as cross-linking agents for rubbers and improving their mechanical and physical properties, temperature resistance, and reducing discoloration. They also modify polymers like polypropylene, making them more mouldable and suitable for producing items like caps for food and cosmetic jars. With an increase in global rubber production, particularly synthetic rubber, the demand for organic peroxides is expected to grow, particularly in polymerization applications.
The increasing demand for polymers is one of the major factors driving the growth of the organic peroxide industry. Polymers are one of the most popular application of organic peroxides. Organic peroxides are well suited for the synthesis of polymer resins and are used as curing agents as they provide benefits such as the generation of more polymer chains with a lower molecular weight. This is aiding the growth of the overall organic peroxide industry. The market is also being supported by the growing packaging and construction industry as it significantly contributes to the demand for organic peroxide.
Percarbonates are among the most extensively manufactured organic peroxides globally, with major production taking place in countries such as the USA, Turkey, China, Germany, and Bulgaria. The leading exporters of percarbonates are the USA and Turkey, which together account for more than 50% of the worldwide exports. The primary destinations for these exports are India, Brazil, Germany, Netherlands, Indonesia, and Thailand.
Several multinational corporations specialize in the manufacturing and distribution of organic peroxides worldwide. Nouryon, AkzoNobel, Arkema, United Initiators, Pergan, NOF Corporation, and Dongsung Corp are among the corporations that operate in this industry.
AkzoNobel, a Dutch-based corporation, produces and distributes organic peroxides that are used in the production of polymers, plastics, and other materials. To cater to the increasing demand for organic peroxides in the North American polyvinyl chloride (PVC) market, Nouryon has recently expanded the capacity for emulsion-based organic peroxides at its Los Reyes facility in Mexico by over 100%.
Arkema is another multinational corporation that produces organic peroxides utilized in various industries, such as automotive, construction, and electronics. The company has twelve production plants and offers a range of organic peroxides under its brand names, including Luperox, Vul-Cup® R, and Di-Cup® R. Recently, Arkema restructured its distribution channel for organic peroxides in the European rubber and plastic market by incorporating three new partners for distribution.
Researchers have developed novel and environmentally friendly methods for synthesizing organic peroxides that are more efficient and safe than traditional approaches. A recent study used a continuous flow reactor to synthesize benzoyl peroxide, resulting in increased yields and reduced reaction times.
To address the instability and potential hazards associated with organic peroxides, researchers have worked on developing more stable and safer formulations. One recent study introduced a new category of polymeric organic peroxides that exhibit enhanced stability and reduced likelihood of explosions.
Organic peroxides are being employed in novel applications such as medicine and electronics. For instance, a recent study explored their use as photoresists in the production of microelectronic devices.
Proper disposal of organic peroxides is a significant challenge due to their potential hazards. Consequently, researchers have been investigating alternative methods for recycling and waste management. A recent study explored the use of microorganisms for degrading organic peroxides, potentially providing a more sustainable means of disposal.
Overall, these developments in organic peroxides are helping to improve their efficiency, safety, and sustainability, and are opening up new opportunities for their use in various industries.
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