Benzoyl peroxide: a widely used organic acid

Description   

Benzoyl peroxide, also known as Dibenzoyl peroxide, is an organic acid in the peroxide family that's been used to treat acne for more than 60 years. The major decomposition product of benzoyl peroxide in water was benzoic acid, but trace amounts of phenyl benzoate, phenol, and hydroxybenzoic acids were formed. Benzoyl peroxide is soluble in polyethylene glycol (PEG) and isopropyl myristate, but it is not stable in these solvents. Also, it is practically insoluble in water and only slightly soluble in ethanol but is very stable in the presence of these solvents. Due to its unique properties, Benzoyl peroxide has applicability in industrial, food science, and dental applications.

Polymerization initiator   

In industrial production and chemical experiments, it is always used as a polymerization initiator for the synthesis of polystyrene and acrylate polymers and copolymers. These polymers are crucial components to Super Glue, plexiglass, and many types of plastics[1]. Benzoyl peroxide could form crosslinks in silicone rubber. In particular, The ability of benzoyl peroxide to form crosslinks was found to decrease markedly as the peroxide concentration was increased[2]. In the food industry, it can act as a food additive to make food white and brighter due to its bleaching properties. Such as flour, cheese, and whey.

Drug   

In addition, it can be used as a medicine or medical supply. Based on its bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, and ability to act as a polymerization agent, benzoyl peroxide could also be used as a polymerization agent for tooth cements and restoratives, or as a bleaching agent for whitening teeth. Benzoyl peroxide has broad-spectrum activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as yeasts and fungi ingredients in acne medications. Since acne-causing bacteria Propionibacterium acnes does not commonly develop benzoyl peroxide resistance, Benzoyl peroxide is superior to other acne drugs[3].   

References   

[1] Vedenyapina D, et al. Adsorption of benzoyl peroxide on activated carbon. Solid Fuel Chem., 2016; 50: 306–309. 

[2] Bueche, A, et al. The curing of silicone rubber with benzoyl peroxide. J. Polym. Sci. A Polym. Chem., 1995; 15: 105-120.

[3] Her B, et al. A Three-Step Synthesis of Benzoyl Peroxide. J. Chem. Educ., 2014; 91: 1491–1494.

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