What is Peroxide Bleach?

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Peroxide bleach, or hydrogen peroxide bleach, is a liquid with weak caustic properties that has found many uses throughout modern history, from the home to industry. A very simple solution, hydrogen peroxide bleach's chemical compound contains only one more atom of oxygen per molecule than normal water (H2O2). Perhaps, the most common global application of peroxide bleach is to bleach paper.

For many, a weak solution of peroxide bleach (around 3% bleach) has been used as an antiseptic. Poured over an open wound or sore, the weak acid contained in peroxide bleach kills, or otherwise incapacitates, many strains of harmful bacteria that can cause infection. It is, however, no substitute for injuries requiring medical attention. Hydrogen peroxide bleach can also be used as a mouthwash, though it might be a good idea to dilute the solution further than the typical household variety of hydrogen peroxide bleach, as it is possible for the bleach to wear down tooth enamel.

Though it is possible to directly ingest peroxide bleach, there are several possible adverse reactions in the human body. If hydrogen peroxide bleach is consumed without the proper precautions, it can result in an upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. Fortunately, there are other less harmful methods to use hydrogen peroxide bleach in food preparation. A 1/4 cup (about 60 ml) of hydrogen peroxide bleach diluted into a full sink of water is believed to be an effective e-coli cleaner for vegetables. Also, by using equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide bleach and water it is possible to make a meat marinade. Last, but certainly not least, a mixture of peroxide bleach and water can be used as a colonic, douche, or enema method.

Hydrogen peroxide bleach therapy is believed by many to reduce the risk of developing cancer. In fact, studies have shown that individuals with a lower oxygen level in their bloodstream are more likely to develop cancer. By drinking the peroxide bleach, some believe that it will increase the amount of oxygen in the body. However, the American Cancer Society has stated that there are is no evidence that peroxide bleach treatment will reduce the chance of developing cancer.

A stronger mixture of peroxide bleach can be used for many varying purposes. A mixture of around 15% peroxide is used to bleach human hair. Also, it can be used to whiten localized areas of skin. Aside from skin whitening, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide bleach can be used to whiten bones that are to be put on display. An extremely high concentrate mixture of hydrogen peroxide bleach can be used as a type of rocket fuel, either as a stand alone propellant or mixed with other fuels.

Hydrogen peroxide bleach decomposes very slowly while kept in the proper conditions. If stored in a cool, dry, dark place, peroxide bleach will lose about 10% of its potency per year. To extend its usefulness, peroxide bleach can be stored in a freezer.

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