Which organic peroxide class can initiate deflagration?

Organic peroxides are classified based on their inherent hazards and potential for reactivity. Class I organic peroxides are known to be the most hazardous among the classifications and are particularly capable of initiating deflagration due to their stability and the energy they can release when decomposing.

Deflagration is a type of rapid combustion or explosion that occurs at a speed less than the speed of sound. Class I organic peroxides, which include compounds that can readily decompose or react under certain conditions, are more likely to create fire and explosive hazards when subjected to heat, friction, or shock.

In contrast, Classes II, III, and IV represent organic peroxides that are progressively less hazardous. While they may still pose risks, their potential to initiate deflagration is significantly lower when compared to Class I. Therefore, knowing the distinctions in reactivity and hazard classification is essential in managing the safe handling and storage of these chemicals in laboratory settings.