3 ms·
> ‘Because hydrogen peroxide is considered a relatively unstable molecule, scientists have always disregarded this step, deeming it implausible; but we have sho
by 10ren 18y ago
> ‘Because hydrogen peroxide is considered a relatively unstable molecule, scientists have always disregarded this step, deeming it implausible; but we have shown otherwise,’
Worth remembering when you're trying to do something new.
Anyone know if the metal/organic catalyst is toxic?
- Shamiq 18y agoHydrogen peroxide? It will break down into water and oxygen molecules very quickly in the presence of sunlight, so I don't really deem it to be toxic. However, as H2O2, it is corrosive.
- 10ren 18y agoNo, the "metal-organic" catalyst mentioned in the article. It's apparently a "metal complex of the element ruthenium". H2O2 is produced as an intermediate product. My comment only makes sense in the context of the article. :-)
- miked 18y ago>> Anyone know if the metal/organic catalyst is toxic? I don't know about ruthenium in particular, but almost all heavy metals are toxic to humans. That's because they can often substitute for similar, desirable metals (almost always lighter) in various biomolecules, but not function properly when substituted. In other words, the heavy metals are similar enough to bind to some active site, but not similar enough to perform the correct function. Ruthenuium's properties are very similar to iron's, which sounds like trouble.
- deleted 18y ago[deleted]