Storage

Only certain materials that do not promote the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide are suitable for the construction of container and storage equipment. As construction material for storage tanks, pure aluminium, AIMg₃ and more recently—owing to the reduced corrosion problems—polyethylene (up to 60% by wt. H₂O₂) or stainless steel are used.

If possible, hydrogen peroxide should be stored in roofed, fireproof rooms where it can be kept cool and protected from the sun. It can, however, withstand summer temperatures as well as severe, cold winter temperatures. It is important that the hydrogen peroxide is protected against all types of contamination. With proper storage in the original containers or in tank installations, the solutions can be stored for long periods of time without noticeable losses in active oxygen (less than 2% relative per year).

Aluminium and stainless steel tanks can be installed horizontally or vertically, but for static reasons polyethylene containers must be installed only vertically. For reasons of safety, it is advisable to install larger storage containers in a collection basin. Stainless steel and PVC have proven most effective for piping. Before initial filling, the storage tank and all parts in an H₂O₂ storage tank installation must be cleaned and passivated.

Storage tanks, intermediate containers, as well as dosing and reaction vessels must be fitted with venting equipment. In addition, hydrogen peroxide must not remain trapped in pipes between valves because decomposition could lead to overpressure.

Evonik has acquired extensive experience in the planning and construction of tank installations, which we are glad to make available to our customers. Our Engineering Group carries out the design, construction, and initial filling, including prior cleaning. As the smallest unit, 6 m³ tank installations are normally built, which permit delivery of the product in 5 ton containers. In general, such an installation is economically feasible for an annual requirement of at least 20—30 tons.