Diethyl peroxydicarbonate is particularly sensitive to temperature rises and contamination. Above a given "Control Temperature" they decompose violently. Diethyl peroxydicarbonate is generally stored or transported in a solvent slurry, water, alcohol, etc.
Diethyl peroxydicarbonate decomposes violently or explosively at temperatures 0-10°C owing to self-accelerating exothermic decomposition. Several explosions were due to shock, heat or friction. Amines and certain metals can cause accelerated decomposition [Bretherick, 1979 p. 156]. Danger of explosion when dry.
The impure material is
a powerful explosive extremely sensitive to
heat or impact. When heated to
decomposition it emits acrid smoke and
fumes. See also PEROXIDES.
