Direct Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide from Water and Alcohol Using Ultrasound

Generating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) within aqueous or eco-friendly solvent systems presents significant challenges due to the complex reaction dynamics and the need for highly selective and stable catalysts. Herein, we report the production of H2O2 with an exceeding rate of one millimole per liter per hour in the absence of catalysts, achieved by agitating aerated ethanol-aqueous solutions with ultrasound. This result is attributed to the water charge transfer, which induces charged water molecules to react with dissolved oxygen and ethanol, respectively. In addition, the diffusion of the superoxide radical is faster in ethanol aqueous solutions than in pure water or in ethanol alone, contributing to the high rate of H2O2 generation. Our technology provides new insights into sonochemistry and establishes a green synthetic system for H2O2 production.