Previous by Date: Subject: Re: [DCHAS-L] piranha solution Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2014 10:23:50 AM Author: Kenneth Smith <ken.smith**At_Symbol_Here**UCOP.EDU>
Virtually every piranha acid SOP I have read recommends adding the peroxide to the acid and NOT the other way around. There is a larger volume of acid in any of the standard piranha preparations and the concentration of peroxide should not be exceed the
recommended ratios (3:1, 5:1, 7:1 sulfuric acid:hydrogen peroxide). It is recommended to add the peroxide slowly to prevent boiling. This is a very exothermic reaction. Some universities report that if concentrations of peroxides exceed 50%, violent explosions
can occur.
Brandon S. Chance, M.S., CCHO
Program Manager, Chemical Safety
Environmental Health and Safety
Princeton University
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When preparing piranha solution, do we add acid to the peroxide or the peroxide to the acid. I see different opinions on this. What is the standard practice?
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