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Both peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide are widely-used oxidisers for cleaning and disinfection. Key differences lie in antimicrobial performance, material compatibility, reactivity and temperature range.
Peracetic acid (PAA) is a more potent biocide, providing rapid and high-level disinfection even at low temperatures and concentrations.
Hydrogen peroxide is a versatile oxidiser that can be used at many concentrations, often preferred where material compatibility or cost are key considerations.
Both are fully biodegradable, meaning they break down into their harmless component parts after use.
Peracetic acid (CH₃CO₃H) is an equilibrium mixture containing of both acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide. It is produced by reacting the two together in the presence of a mineral acid catalyst, such as sulphuric acid.
Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) is a simple, powerful oxidiser. Industrially, it is produced by the anthraquinone process, a chemical loop that results in a high-purity product suitable for a range of applications.
Both products are oxidisers. They clean by ‘stealing’ electrons from organic matter and breaking apart the cellular components of microorganisms.
A key distinction for PAA is its peracetyl (-COOOH) group, which is added during the process of bonding acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide. This changes the personality of the molecule and gives the chemical an even more aggressive oxidative profile.
The unique structure is also why PAA offers higher performance in cold water environments, where other oxidisers require heat to be effective.
Feature |
Peracetic acid |
Hydrogen peroxide |
| Oxidation | Very high (1.81 V) | High (1.78 V) |
| Temperature range | Effective at cold and ambient temperatures | Performances improves with temperature |
| pH range | Wide (effective at pH 1-9) | Narrow (best at low pH) |
| Material compatibility | Corrosive to soft metals (copper, brass, bronze, mild steel), compatible with 304/316 stainless steel and most plastics | Generally compatible with a wide range of materials, less aggressive on metals than PAA |
| Residues | Acetic acid, water, oxygen | Water, oxygen |
As a highly effective biocide, PAA is the preferred choice for high-level, fast-acting industrial disinfection, especially in high-soil environments. Key applications include:
Peracetic acid also has non-biocidal applications, such as an oxidative aid in fresh produce processing and for removing contaminants from salads, fruit and vegetables.
Hydrogen peroxide has wide-ranging uses across many industries, particularly where controlled reactivity and material compatibility are key. This includes:
We have over 50 years’ experience supplying chemical solutions to industry. This includes peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide in a range of strengths and quantities.
With our own dedicated vehicle fleet, we offer fast, secure delivery across the UK and Europe.
Contact our experts to discuss your specific requirements or for advice on the best product for your application.