What is Hydrogen Peroxide?

Hydrogen peroxide contains the same molecules as water (H2O) except it has an extra oxygen molecule (H2O2). [1]

How is Hydrogen Peroxide made?

The most traditional method of producing hydrogen peroxide uses multiple steps, part of which requires the use of anthraquinone to catalyze the reaction. The environmental downside is that anthraquinone comes from fossil fuels. [3] Fortunately there are more environmentally friendly methods of producing hydrogen peroxide being researched and used at a smaller scale, with hopes for large scale production.

How does Hydrogen Peroxide Work?

Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria by destroying their cell walls. It can do this because the previously mentioned extra oxygen molecule is very reactive, attracting electrons from the bacteria cell walls causing them to break down. This process is called oxidation. This process is seen by the naked eye as a white fizz. [4] LauraKay Innovations uses hydrogen peroxide as an ingredient in OxyVation for its oxidative strength which aids in deep cleaning.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Coronavirus

Through oxidation, hydrogen peroxide disrupts the lipid envelope that surrounds the Covid-19 virus, keeping it from becoming active. Rhinovirus (causes the common cold) is more difficult to destroy than coronaviruses. However, hydrogen peroxide was able to inactivate rhinovirus in 6 to 8 minutes. [5] Thus, hydrogen peroxide should be able to break down the coronavirus in less time. [6]  

Is Hydrogen Peroxide safe to use?

At the common household product dilution of 3 percent, and up to 5 percent, hydrogen peroxide is not readily absorbed through unbroken skin. However, when exposed to mucus membranes, such as the lining of the mouth or nose, hydrogen peroxide can cause mild irritation. [8] Compared to bleach, hydrogen peroxide is a safer, and more environmentally friendly choice for performing similar tasks as bleach products as it completely breaks down to water and oxygen. [9] LauraKay Innovations recommends wearing rubber gloves when using OxyVation for hard surface cleaning and stain removal.

References

[1] health.clevelandclinc.org/what-is-hydrogen -peroxide-good-for/

[2] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hydrogen-peroxide

[3] https://chbe.illinois.edu/news/stories/scientists-demonstrate-a-better-more-eco-friendly-method-to-produce-hydrogen-peroxide

[4] https://www.livescience.com/33061-why-does-hydrogen-peroxide-fizz-on-cuts.html

[5] https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html#Hydrogen

[6] https://www.consumerreports.org/cleaning/common-household-products-that-can-destroy-novel-coronavirus/

[7] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hydrogen-peroxide#definition

[8] https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/hydrogen-peroxide/

[9] https://www.officecrave.com/articles/hydrogen-peroxide-vs-bleach