A Portable Microreactor System to Synthesize Hydrogen Peroxide

In the event that vehicles of buildings become contaminated by hazardous chemical or biological materials, a well-studied and effective decontaminant is hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV).  Unfortunately, the current technology for generating HPV requires 35 weight percent hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a precursor, which is dangerous and cumbersome to transport and is classified by the Department of Transportation as a Class 5.1 Hazard (oxidizer) and a Class 8 Hazard (corrosive).  While 35 weight percent hydrogen peroxide is normally stable, if the temperature becomes elevated or the container becomes contaminated, it can quickly decompose. TDA Research, Inc. (TDA) proposes a compact portable system that will generate liquid H2O2 on-site, eliminating all problems related to its transport and storage.  TDA’s portable system will only require water, air, and electricity (resources that are readily available at any application site) and will not generate any hazardous by-products that are difficult to dispose. Results: Successful completion of Phase I will result in the demonstration of the feasibility of the portable H2O2 generation system and show its economic viability.  In Phase II, TDA will build and test a full-scale prototype unit. Potential Commercial Applications: This system will enable on-site H2O2 generation, generating a 35 weight percent solution that can be used to decontaminate the interiors of vehicles and buildings.  H2O2 is a strong, nonpolluting oxidizing agent, with broad applications in pulp/paper bleaching, water/waste and effluent treatment, chemical synthesis, propulsion, and is also finding increased use in keeping hospital interiors safe.  The system and the materials developed in this work will also provide cost-effective H2O2 to U.S. chemical and manufacturing industries.